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Album Review

Yellow Wood

EP 1 [EP] (2004)

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Windsor, Ontario is not really known for too may things in particular. In fact, many people (Canadians included), might not even be able to place it on a map. Nevertheless, in spite of this town’s quiet history and semi-remote locale, they do now have something to be extremely proud of; a formidable and fairly complex rising indie rock band by the name of Yellow Wood. Although the group is not currently too well-known, their tight, rockin’, and highly emotional sound will definitely soon change the face of this band’s exposure. As they continue to play increasingly larger venues, their music is slowly starting to take off. More importantly however in the group’s journey to rising recognition, is the recent release of their debut disc entitled “EP1.” The album features six equally well compiled songs and overall is truly a great mini-collection of music.

It was in May of 2004 when Yellow Wood’s debut release first became available and ever since, the group has been flourishing. The small six-song EP is highly emotive and this sentiment becomes present as soon as the album opener, “The Wood Between the Worlds”, gets underway. Fantastically mellow and yet at times upbeat, this song itself is already an indication of Yellow Wood’s musical quality and potential. “Angel Chorus” is next and as it opens with the words, “Hallelujah. It’s the perfect time of year”, the group’s vivacity and zest for life is instantly ever-present. Although this song is a tad more up-tempo than the previous one it nevertheless maintains the group’s joyful and placid flow. The third song, “Rollercoaster”, follows suit in that it is also an extremely emotionally gripping tune. With this song it is apparent that Yellow Wood has seemingly perfected the art of making super-happy ideas feel surprisingly poignant.

“The Burning Bridges” is the first song which truly demonstrates the group’s incredible use of synthesizers and varied effects; elements which only serve to heighten the impact of Yellow Wood’s already emotionally-rich music. With a crazy, looped drum machine beat repeating over and over again, this repetitious and erratic sample song is simultaneously so weirdly out of place and yet completely at home. Even though it is only 2:15 minutes in length, the song shies away from being just a filler track. “The Motion” returns movement to the album as the song brings about a faster, but no more upbeat pace. The EP closes with a song called “Shuttle Home.” As it begins with raspy, melancholy, relationship-related lyrics and a single guitar strumming cheerful chords, this song is immediately warming. Eventually the tune fades ever so slowly producing a near perfect manner in which to end an album that is no doubt emotionally riveting.

Yellow Wood’s debut disc is surprisingly incredible. This small group of musicians have come out of a proportionally small place in Canada armed to the teeth with one heck of an emotional sound. If there is any one album which should be played when making love or simply when chilling with a finely aged glass of port in a candle-lit room pondering life’s quintessential philosophical conundrums, then this is without a doubt the one. Maintaining a very mellow pace with just a hint of a rough edge, Yellow Wood’s unique sound has touched my musical soul and now I say; it’s your turn to be affected.  [ END ]

Track Listing:

01. The Wood Between the Worlds
02. Angel Chorus
03. Rollercoaster
04. (The Burning Bridges)
05. The Motion
06. Shuttle Home

Run Time: 25:47

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