Urban environment features diverse range of musical styles and complexity on new album “There …”
Jagged City is a post-rock trio comprising Jake Woodruff (Defeater), Carlos Torres (former touring member of Explosions In The Sky), and drummer/engineer Urian Hackney (The Armed). Their music is an intriguing fusion of swooping melodic passages and gritty instrumentation, creating a distinctive sound that showcases their evolution in the most authentic way possible.
The band’s debut EP, “There Are More of Us, Always,” is set to release on January 30 through Pelagic Records. The project’s sound can best be described as a blend of ethereal, melodic post-rock with a raw, intricate production style that sets them apart. Everything is Noise is thrilled to exclusively showcase the EP’s premiere and provide a detailed review for those looking to explore the unconventional and authentic aspects of post-rock.
The EP commences with the melodic introductory track “(don’t dream it’s over),” which features swelling textures and distorted elements juxtaposed with a fingerstyle acoustic guitar passage. The transition to the full track, “Imaginary Lines,” highlights the juxtaposition of clean, reverb-soaked guitars with unprocessed bass, encapsulating the raw essence of the album. The dynamics between light and dark intensify with “Rain and Sirens,” as the music moves from ghostly textures to darker post-metal territories, conveying sorrow and aggression through unfiltered instrumentation.
“Ocean East, Ocean West” continues the eerie atmosphere with dissonant guitar passages and rhythmic layering, evoking a sense of warmth and intensity. “Hairspring” showcases harmonious qualities alongside a heavy bass tone, maintaining the record’s weightier roots. “Minus Power” delves into brighter, melodic elements with intricate guitar textures and harmonics, leading to a seamless transition into the EP’s final track, “(deluge in a paper cup),” which closes the album with a burst of aggression and extreme sonic tendencies.
The EP’s singles, “Imaginary Lines” and “Oceans East, Oceans West,” offer listeners insight into Jagged City’s experimental creative process, as explained by Woodruff and Torres. Hackney’s production expertise enhances the project’s sound, creating intricately arranged compositions that elevate each track. Guest sessions with David Haik also contributed to refining the songs’ structures and drum frameworks, further enhancing the collaborative and creative nature of the record.
Woodruff reflects on the collaborative essence of the record, emphasizing the importance of connection and creativity in inspiring collective progress. Both Woodruff and Torres provide insights into the EP’s tracks, sharing personal anecdotes and inspirations that shaped the music’s evolution. From the reflective basslines in “Rain and Sirens” to the homage to influential musicians in “Hairspring,” each track is a testament to the band’s artistic depth and creative vision.
In conclusion, Jagged City’s debut EP marks a significant step in their musical journey, showcasing a blend of ethereal melodies, raw instrumentation, and intricate production that sets them apart in the post-rock landscape. With a focus on collaboration, creativity, and authenticity, the band invites listeners to explore the unconventional and innovative aspects of their music, creating a truly immersive and engaging sonic experience.