The Brian Jonestown Massacre
+ - EP
November 10 2014 (A Recordings)
7/10
Words: Leanne Crowley
Following on from their acclaimed 14th full-length release earlier this year, The Brian Jonestown Massacre, the musical enigma that is Anton Newcombe, are now set to drop an EP. Recorded in Anton's Berlin studio it consists of a short and concise three-track vinyl, or four-track download offering.
Following the BJM pattern, it is melodic, mellow; swirling the focus in and out to thoroughly draw the listener's attention around the traditional - and much loved - BJM sound alongside Eastern influences which have recently captivated Anton.
Opener and leading track ‘Heat' offers Anton's characteristic drawl early doors, while the dual guitar sound is a key presence and the ever-present jangle of the tambourine marches on while thd low drum beat adds to make for a complimentary mix. ‘Everything Was Very Simple' offers Eastern inspired samples to a jangly musical accompaniment.
The strongest track, however, comes in the form of ‘Reconstruction' where melodious guitars and tambourines dominate in characteristic fashion, with the drums in keener focus. Overall a feeling of calm is prevalent and the fade to end offers a nice touch. Bonus track for the download, ‘Leave it Alone' is louder, more raw, and more empowered than its predecessors and may explain why it didn't make the vinyl cut. Anton's vocal presence is felt strongest here and the middle section of the track offers a pleasant instrumental.
BJM are once more churning out album after album, much like in their early inception. ‘Revelation' was always going to be a tough act to follow given its success and this EP feels like a bridge and a teaser of what is to come next.
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