The Wave Files
EA, 2023
8/10
The one man band of Scott Helland, as Guitarmy Of One the veteran hardcore bassist brings reverb, looping and acoustic-electric riffs to 10 very interesting tunes.
“Top Secret Agent Man On A Wire Tapped Phone At Sea” begins the listen with thumping drums and glowing guitar lines that make give the effect of a soundtrack to a spy flick, and “Jack Lord Of The Sea” follows with bright guitar progressions amid the mesmerizing drums that carry plenty of rhythm.
The middle belongs to the dreamy spirit of “The Sea And The Seventh Veil Of Surveilance”, where strong attention to atmosphere is appreciated, while “Plight Of The Searchlight” carries a darker appeal that manipulates mood amid the firm guitar playing.
Residing near the end, the more rugged territory of “Must Be The Season Of Treason” is both hazy and chugging into its diverse vision, and “Seance For The Saint” exits with a reflective tone of introspection.
Helland has an impressive resume that includes playing in Deep Wound and Outpatients, and he’s currently in the post-punk outfit Frenchy And The Punk. This Spy Rock, Surf Noir affair showcases his varied skill and inimitable playing that might make you want to watch James Bond while playing The Beach Boys.
Travels well with: The Neptunas- Mermaid A Go Go; Brian Wilson & Van Dyke Parks- Orange Crate Art