Whine of the Mystic, the debut LP from Halifax jangle-rockers Nap Eyes, screams "unearthed treasure." Though this release is a reissue, it's only a year removed from its initial pressing, but its analog recording and clearly defined, vinyl-friendly structure — two distinct yet complementary sides running around 20 minutes each — belie its contemporary origins.
While the album's first side proves a solid introduction to the band's musical ethos, it's the back half on which their full potential really emerges, featuring five fantastic tracks filled with hooks that demonstrate the band are equally strong at writing upbeat pop and slower, twangy rock. This is especially evident on "The Night of the First Show" and "Oh My Friends," a pair of songs about other people breaking up that contemplates beginnings and endings for a moving five minutes.
Nap Eyes' pack relatable, dense introspection into simple-sounding, head-bopping tunes. No matter what you're looking for, Whine of the Mystic has it; it just depends on how much you're willing to imbibe.
(You've Changed Records)While the album's first side proves a solid introduction to the band's musical ethos, it's the back half on which their full potential really emerges, featuring five fantastic tracks filled with hooks that demonstrate the band are equally strong at writing upbeat pop and slower, twangy rock. This is especially evident on "The Night of the First Show" and "Oh My Friends," a pair of songs about other people breaking up that contemplates beginnings and endings for a moving five minutes.
Nap Eyes' pack relatable, dense introspection into simple-sounding, head-bopping tunes. No matter what you're looking for, Whine of the Mystic has it; it just depends on how much you're willing to imbibe.