A little over a year ago when the existence of Palms was announced to the world there was a rush of excitement about the band. Both Isis and Deftones are revered and incredibly influential bands in their own ways. Expectations were set and for the next year everyone had to wonder what it would be like. Would it transcend the sum of its parts or would it fall into the “supergroup” trap and be too self aware to deliver? Would they be able to step outside of the considerable expectations and create something new but not alienate their collective fanbases? Luckily Palms have delivered a gorgeous debut that is not only worth the wait but exceeds expectations at every turn.
Comparisons to both Isis and Deftones are inevitable but it is apparent from the outset that Palms is quite different than both. ‘Future Warrior’ opens with a simple synth texture and mild electronics before dropping into a mid-tempo groove that is both familiar and fresh sounding. Anchored by wiry guitar melodies and airy vocals it gives a taste of the moody dynamics that make up much of the record. By the time the final climax of the song thunders in, it is apparent that Palms are reaching for the more grandiose and beautiful side of heavy music. Layers of delayed guitars, basses and softly twinkling keys fade out into the spacious ‘Patagonia.’ The opening waves give way to an effected bassline in lockstep with the drums, while hazy vocals and guitars play off each others atmospherics. As ‘Patagonia’ stretches and expands it avoids any cliched "heaviness" Ultimately, this is Palms’ biggest strength on the record. Their ability to be huge and expansive without relying on chugging riffs and overdramatic volume shifts is masterful and refreshing.
‘Mission Sunset’ takes the open and spacious atmosphere even farther than the opening tracks. The fuzzy optimism of the opening verse quickly gives way to a subdued, melancholic build. Pining vocals blend with crackling guitars before releasing all of the tension into a hushed middle section, before crescendoing again to the songs powerful zenith. ‘Shortwave Radio’ sits next to ‘Mission Sunset’ and also works because of its alternating light and dark moods. Guitars, bass and vocals layer melodies over each other through tenuous mood shifts until tightening into a brooding climb to the heaviest section of the album. These two songs in particular show off the expansive arrangements and dynamic range that Palms is capable of.
Whereas both ‘Mission Sunset’ and ‘Shortwave Radio’ thrive on slow builds and climactic release ‘Tropics’ is all ethereal beauty. Echoey keyboards and subtle slide guitar flourishes combined with some of the best vocals on the entire album make ‘Tropics’ a sublimely gorgeous song. The final song on the record ‘Antarctic Handshake’ is one part dreamy ambient meandering and one part upbeat soundscape. The final delayed refrain closing out the album with a quiet whisper. You’ll probably just start the whole thing over at this point.
What really works for Palms is the attention and emphasis on mood and feel over brute force. The music undulates and breathes without ever sounding forced or overwrought. Repeat listens begin to yield even more layers and little bits of ear candy that show the care that went into this project. There is enough here for fans of both bands to find some comfort in but it is still a very new and unique endeavor. Many people will be wondering if it was worth the wait, rather than the end of a wait, I hope this is the beginning of a long career.
It is marvelous.
