EastScene

Before I write an album review, I usually spend a few days listening to the tracks, finding the pleasing traits and further understand the band or artist as a single being. A key part of a band’s appeal is their ability to be recognized by listeners, the whole idea of “hey, that sounds like (insert band here).” Which begs the question, how does one describe such a dynamic, clever and innovative musical force from Brooklyn, NY, known to the general public as Cale Parks?

Imagine, if you will, a musical buffet, with hot tables stretching as far as your eye can see. You grab your plate and head down the row, taking a little bit of this and a touch of that, slowly making your way throughout a plethora of artists. In the case of Cale Parks, however, your plate might as well be a freaking wheelbarrow. The influences behind the artist, as well as the album, are enough to boggle the mind and enrapture the soul.

Here’s the kicker:

Cale Parks is the band.

The name for the band is actually the name of drummer, percussionist, pianist, and vibraphonist, best known for his contributions to American indie-rock band Aloha http://www.myspace.com/aloha. The recently released EP, titled To Swift Mars, is a virtual symphony of musical genius and magnificent artistry, strung together with precision and obvious experience. The greatest aspect of this album is that it genuinely appeals to nearly every listener of indie rock. From bands like The Most Serene Republic and Department of Eagles, to recognizable facets of everyday life, like Nintendo (you know those sequences in games like Donkey Kong 64, whenever you’re on an island or have to swim underwater? It’s in here!), To Swift Mars encourages listeners to hear what they choose to hear, all the while refusing to compromise its artistic integrity.

The opening track entitled “Eyes Won’t Shut” is ultimately the voice for the rest of the album, an electronica-meets-ambience song that encompasses the essence of Parks himself: cool, reserved, collected, and musically well-developed. The 6 song EP is jam-packed with musical prowess and confidence, while maintaining a serene, calm demeanor. The closing track “We Can Feel It” is a tribute to what indie music should strive to be. A masterfully composed piece, combining the organic feels of piano and drum with the digitally powered synthesizer.

To say that the future for Parks is bright is a massive understatement. There is no doubt that the music featured on To Swift Parks has mass appeal, while at the same time maintaining a sound that is true to its roots.

Best Tracks? “Eyes Won’t Shut”, “Knight Conversation”, “Crystal Air”, “We Can Feel It”

Buy or Download? …Are you kidding me? Did you not read this review?! A great addition to any music collection; pick it up here.

8.5/10

Joshua Fumo