An almost rhythmic piano introduces Ester Drang's Goldenwest, interrupted and foreshadowed by seemingly sporadic drums that eventually join with a gazing guitar to usurp the higher planes of a tense yet hypnotic melody, while the piano plays on despite being drowned in layer after layer of introduced musical element. As the album progresses from there -- and we are treated with a variety of imaginative layering coupled with a defining rock aesthetic cautiously harnessed to produce a hard, yet somehow paradoxically pure form of 'space pop' -- the Drang seem to demonstrate a firm belief in the art of erecting electric walls, and then ensuring their fortitude by reinforcing them with a personable coating of traditional instruments made esoteric, albeit only in their creative usage. It is in the spirit of successful arrangement, other-worldly aura, and song writing risks that the Drang make company with Brian Wilson, John Lennon, Pink Floyd, and more modern compatriots like Starflyer 59, Low, and Radiohead.
Other coverage for this album
Opus 2001Reviewed by Jason MoreheadThere are those times when, within the first 30 seconds of listening to a new CD, you know you're listening to something truly special. It's a slowly dawning sensation that spreads over you shortly after pressing "Play," a satisfaction that comes from not just knowing your money has been well spent, but that you're listening to a CD that will still be vital listening 6 months from now. I…Similar sounding releases
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