Written By: Jennifer Burch
When a band reaches its twilight, that doesn’t always mean the artist is ready to do the same. Thankfully, we have a resurgence of super groups ready to help fill the void when we’re all left jonesing for new material. These bands are like the gifts that keep giving.
The masterminds behind Gone is Gone (Mastadon’s Troy Sanders, Queens of the Stone Age’s Troy Van Leeuwen, At the Drive-In’s Tony Hajjar and Mike Zarin) have created a quality sound which has fans eagerly awaiting the July 8th release of their self-titled EP. The cover art is a nice choice that pairs well with the music because it brings to mind themes of vulnerability, letting go and stepping into another realm. Do yourself a kindness and cleanse your musical palette before listening. Set aside any preconceived expectations on what this band might sound like, because it probably won’t come close.
The 8 track EP opens strong with “Violescent”, a song filled with rhythmic distortion and familiar elements of the member’s past lives. However, “Starlight” and “Stolen From Me” take a turn in the opposite direction with their soft, mesmerizing melodies. For some reason the opening to “Starlight” makes me think of my heels clicking away as I walk down an abandoned corridor. Afraid, yet intrigued by what I’ll find around the corner. Gone is Gone keeps things interesting in this way.
“Character” and “Recede and Enter” offer a similar haunting vibe, one that almost pulls the listener from a relaxed state of dreaming into a coma. My personal favorite is “This Chapter”. This track is longer than the others and more complex, both regarding lyrics and composition. The song builds from a steady pulse to insistent guitar that rings out clearly. Sander’s vocals are undeniably at their best as he belts about “the end”, but the end of what exactly? Pre-order your copy here and enjoy the journey of Gone is Gone.
