Communal
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
An instrumental outfit from Indianapolis, Joel Tucker, Brendan Keller-Tuberg and Justin Clark, i.e. Commodore Trio, bring us 5 meticulous songs that are strong on atmosphere and creativity.
The soothing “We Are Surprised” begins the listen with the sounds of nature alongside Tucker’s soft guitar and eloquent spoken word, and “Communal” follows with dynamic, post-rock tendencies thanks to Clark’s drumming acrobatics and the mesmerizing guitar.
The back side of the listen brings us the intimate “Soundscape 1” and “Soundscape 2”, where space and tension are used strategically and in a cinematic fashion. These 2 selections have the ability to build into powerful, ebullient highs as well as gentle ebbs of graceful, sparse song craft.
The final track, “Switzerland”, is among the best, and places light keys from Keller-Tuberg amid the crisp drums, spirited guitar and precise bass.
A highly artistic and improvised effort, the 5 songs here end entirely too quick, and sound even better on subsequent listens.
Travels well with: The Royal Arctic Institute- Sodium Light; Limina- Hidden Spaces