Cave Bear is Flying Panda,
Kids Near WaterIf ‘Cave Bear is Flying Panda’ confirms anything, it’s that Kids Near Water are criminally underrated. How on earth this band are not more popular is beyond me, as for ten tracks, they almost give a masterclass on how to make solid and abrasive yet soothing music to make the hairs tingle and the ears prick. From the opening chords of ‘So this is how it begins’ it sets up a deep and almost epic like feel of how music used to be made.
Having reviewed their three way split earlier in the year with the Coalfield and America is Waiting, it was KNW who stood head and shoulders amongst their contemparies and shone with their twisting melodies and twinkling guitars. The LP was promising big things and thankfully it has delivered on many levels and must rank as one of Firefly Records crowning achievements to date. While the songs never vary too much from a proven formula, there is always a certain allure that manages to pull you in., be it the masterful hooks or perfectly pitched vocals. These are prevalent from the off and none more so than on the emotionally driving ‘Theme Song of Master Yoo’ and the slightly more upbeat ‘By Any Means Necessary’.
But what is key to each tracks high level is the epic feel which often accompanies them, chiefly ‘Who watches the watchers’ and ‘A brief word of warning’. Neither pretentiously last 8-9 minutes but manage to compact so many conflicting sounds bouncing off one another in 4-5 minutes that it is a credit to the band for managing such a feat. Arguably the best is saved for last though with ‘And this is how it ends’ which effortlessly creates a great song with such simple yet effective use of all the tools at their disposal, and is a fitting end to the ten tracks on display.
Although it may sound over complementary, it is rare to hear such a consistently strong album produced so well. While being beautifully pitched, the lead vocals also stand out for praise and help to create the aforementioned atmosphere. It may not be the biggest release of the year, but it is one that has made the most shockwaves with this reviewer in 2005.
Jay
Firefly Recordings
www.cavebearisflyingpanda.com
