What a
quirky little EP! Finland's Octopie is band with daring and courage. Their new
EP is a follow-up to their debut album, and I have to admit that it is quite
tasty in many different ways, one of them being how different and fresh it
sounds. Octopie have personality to spare, and it comes through clearly on this
EP.
The band
plays an interesting form of prog rock which sounds like a mix of classic rock
and symphonic prog. On one hand, they have a very classic rock sound to their
guitars, and the bassy grooves they induce, but, on the other hand, they use
flute and keys very well, too. The flute is even a mainstay instrument in the
first song, and not just a novelty. Thus, the flute can be found in solos, but
also in the middle of the instrumentals, just like the guitars.
This,
honestly, is what really drew my attention. To hear flute used in such a way is
just awesome, but to hear flute used this way and actually be masterfully
written and beautiful---that is something special.
Tom Tamlander
on vocals also sounds very much like 70s rock singers. Not just his tone, mind
you, but also his vocal melodies. He forms such a whimsical accompaniment to the
music that I start feeling nostalgic for some Hendrix or The Doors. These tones
are certainly in there, but Octopie is no copycat.
My favorite
two tracks are "Departed" and "Moths". The former is packed with flute and
groove, and the the latter is melodious and features some great keys. The other
two songs are excellent as well, as "Empty Pages" includes a slow ambiance
accented with great guitars and "It's Time" has wonderful groove.
Bassy, rockin',
and funky, "Octopie" is worth your time. I hope to hear a full album from this
band soon, especially if it features the same great flute and keys.
