When Only The Music Is Pretty
Poison Summer, 2022
8/10
Listen to When Only The Music Is Pretty
The debut record from an outfit comprised of Kjehl Johansen, Hunter Crowley, Tom Hofer and Steve Andrews, though Circlons might be a new outfit, the members have roots in legendary bands like Trotsky Icepick, The Last, and the Leaving Trains, and they bring that experience to these diverse tunes.
“I Wanna Be On Your Radio (Not In Your Arms)” starts the listen with plenty of pop friendly melodies alongside the punk spirit, as John Talley-Jones (Urinals/100 Flowers) handles vocals, and “When Only The Music Is Pretty” follows with Adam Marsland (Cockeyed) singing amid a string section that complements the orchestral rock.
The back half of the listen includes the R&B flavored “Blue Cheer”, where Lisa Kekaula’s (Bellrays) soulful pipes add much to the rhythmic climate, while “Moon Over Babaluma” showcases Barbara Manning’s spoken word prowess and a swirling improvisation that spreads out over 8 minutes of post-punk and experimental song craft.
A precursor to their forthcoming LP, Circlons might be a punk band at heart, but they certainly embrace plenty of mature influences into these very eclectic and enjoyable tunes.
Travels well with: Boulevards- Electric Cowboy: Born In Carolina Mud; Acid Dad- Acid Dad