An eclectic blending of shoegaze and translucent melodies
Unapologetic and psychedelic, Cloakroom’s latest release, Last Leg of The Human Table features an eclectic production blending shoegaze and translucent melodies. This resulted in a stylistically varied album that stands out on its own while keeping its audience grounded and distributing Cloakroom’s unique stamp on many of the diverse genres they come across. Formed in 2012, in Michigan City, Indiana. Cloakroom’s current members are Doyle Martin(lead vocals, guitar), Bobby Markos(bass), Tim Remis(drums, backing vocals), and Cam Smith(guitar). Cloakroom and Zac Montez produced Last Leg of the Human Table.
Album opener, “The Pilot” makes it’s impression known through an explosion of energetic guitars and drums leading listeners into a stratosphere of wonder and distortion. The following track, “Ester Wind”, blends Grunge and Power-pop elements into a mesh of sonic hooks and pushes its aesthetic to the forefront. The album’s first single, “Unbelonging”, features sunny jangle-pop melodies and poignant lyrics. Lyrically, the song talks about a desire and ache to travel. It features Frontman Doyle Martin’s mesmerizing melancholy vocals and an infectious melody many listeners will return to. The blissful second verse: “Anywhere we are/I can find a way to a nowhere bar” and meticulous production of electric guitars make for a memorable experience. The accompanying music video is a scenic adventure featuring the band’s versatility and vulnerability in both sound and video.
“The Lights are Out” makes its impression known through an explosion of energetic guitars and drums leading listeners into a stratosphere of wonder and distortion. The following track, “Ester Wind”, blends Grunge and Power-pop elements into a mesh of sonic hooks and pushes its aesthetic to the forefront. The album’s first single, “Unbelonging”, is a change of pace featuring a sunny jangle pop melodies and poignant lyrics. Lyrically, the song talks about a desire and ache to travel. Doyle Martin’s mesmerizing melancholy vocals and an infectious melody many listeners will return to. The blissful second verse: “Anywhere we are/I can find a way to a nowhere bar” and meticulous production of electric guitars make for a memorable experience. The accompanying music video is a scenic adventure featuring the band’s versatility and vulnerability in both sound and video. “The Lights are Out” slows things down for listeners featuring a lingering bass and potent verses. Bassist Bobby Markos’ captivating bassline holds the song together while retaining the band’s aesthetic heaviness, even when its production is stripped back.
Continuing this trend of folkgaze genre, is the luring single: “Bad Larry”- written as a fable of perseverance and wanting to roam free. The protagonist is described as a man who wants to live according to his own rules and experiences. Listeners will be swayed by Cloakroom’s impeccable production and music video. The intro persuades its audience through elaborate, laid-back guitar riffs and rhythmic sections. The song is almost split between country and dream-pop genres, but they form a memorable track that illustrates the human experience when combined. One that portrays internal struggles and challenges we can overcome in life. Lyrically, the song showcases a man living life his way on his terms. “Gotta keep the circus movin’/Till I lose my way or what to say” alludes to the protagonist’s approach in continuing on his journey through this world alone but contented with himself. Americana echoes throughout the track, making for an exhilarating experience for its audience.
“Story of the Egg” is a post-punk delight combining doom and folk into one boastful track. The sound and production are hazy and grab listeners for a wild ride. It features a bright, vast output of bass guitars in the intro, building its way to Martin’s languid vocals that thump and are pushed at full throttle. The vibrating domes of guitar effects and riffs make for another exquisite single by Cloakroom. Furthermore, it captures the focus and drive fans know Cloakroom can provide. It is a post-punk aesthetic that gives listeners a sense of euphoria and space. “Turbine Song” plays like a western, with lulling vocals and smooth bass lines. Bringing listeners into the abyss of space and atmosphere and back to earth.
