Greenland - The Prisons of Language

Jimmy Weasel - Wednesday, 4 August 2004 - Print Version

An ironic title for an instrumental album. To be sure, Greenland has no vocals at all. And initially, it's a bit weird to listen to, as it seems as though there's something missing. Like a phantom limb or invisible siamese twin that you can *feel* should be there, but isn't. But this twin isn't necessary. In fact, you were strong enough without that deadweight holding you back.

Admittedly, I first baulked at this album, thinking it too ambient. But I can't stop listening to it now. Its got moxy. And quite a lot of "build," and you just don't really experience that in enough songs these days.

This particular EP has 4 tracks. Each as good as the other. There's old men on the cover, which has nothing to do with the content. Or the review. I don't know how to describe the sound. "Rock" would be the closest thing, but it's not that. It's not difficult to listen to, nor is it everyone's cup of tea. The production is clean and clear - a job well done. The liner notes say that there's some brass on track 3 (secret rat and the bag of happiness) but it wasn't obvious until the very end. The other songs seem to be completely without brass.

There are particular influences in there, but it's not that obvious (to me) who they are. This kind of thing speaks volumes about a band - they possess their own thoughts and sounds.

A very different approach to the scene.

Jimmy Weasel