aaamusic | On 27, Aug 2012

Wot Gorilla? are an indie rock band based in Halifax, England. Their latest album, Kebnekaise (the name of which has possible origins in the tallest mountain in Sweden, Kebnekaise) is due to release on the 27th of August 2012.

Containing eleven tracks in total, the overall feel of the album is of a soft pop-rock; very easy on the ears, but still distinctly of the rock genre. Throughout the album, each track seems to blend into the next rather well to help create a sense of continuity that makes it more enjoyable to listen to. However, the occasional drum parts which seem to stutter do interrupt the flow somewhat, but not enough to cause a huge problem to the overall listening experience.

The vocalist has a higher range of pitch, closer to that of a tenor. Throughout the tracks, the vocals are normally resting within a comfortable pitch for the vocalist with the odd part where it is push a bit for emphasis. The vocals seem to blend very well with the instruments in terms of harmony, though at parts they do seem to get drowned out by the rest of the music.

The backing vocals consist of guitars (bass and electric), drums and some various other instruments that dot the tracks. Most of the tracks use a higher range of notes, rarely using very low pitches. This makes the music feel much warmer and gentler to the ear, making for a pleasant listening experience. It is definitely music that is easy to listen to whether at home or on the go.

Overall, it is a warm and bright album that is nice to listen to. It has some good elements, but does lack a certain spark that could set it out more. The random stops in the drum parts occasionally also do detract from the odd tracks, but not enough to hugely affect them.

★★★★★

Rhys Maroney