Post- rock/metal, instru-metal, math-rock, meth-rock? Call it whatever the hell you want, I'm partial to a bit of vocal free music, as much as that with. That's what it comes down to really, some bands enlist a singer, others either suck when they open their mouths (no smut jokes) or can't put up with some attention seeking ego-maniac warbling all over their hard crafted tunes. That may all be simplistic and cynical but it gets on my nerves that people insist on separating the two. I know it's nearly impossible now, and we all use handy terms when it suits us. Rant over.
X SUNS, from Seattle (oh, post-Grunge? *Aims shotgun at own head*) and yes they suck at singing, or just choose not to. I first heard of them a few years back when I was checking out some other Seattle groups like Sandrider, Absolute Monarchs and Grenades (also feat. X SUNS' drummer). Their first EP impressed me with it's laidback sprawling approach. Since then they have gone through a few line up changes. The guitarists on the first EP were replaced by two other guys. Since recording this new release, one of them has been replaced as well. Trent plays drums and Adam bass, they remain the original members. What the hell they do to guitarists though is what I want to know. Some kind of sacrificial ceremony involving wearing their dead skins is what I'm going to go with.
Whether the skinning of guitarists is responsible or not The Greys sees X SUNS move into heavier territory than before. It's a welcome change as first track 'Jupitourist' is the most immediate and punchy thing they've recorded. Beginning with heavy set riffs it develops into a spiralling twinkly melody, before shifting to heavier rolling rhythms. Drummer Trent McIntyre is impressive throughout playing with fluidity and power. 'High Life Refined Palates' is more restrained but continues with a real organic feel. It shifts into heavier territory again highlighting the new guitarist's contribution.
When there are so many bands making this type of music it needs something to set it apart. Either incorporate new structures and instrumentation, or play with plenty of heart and feeling. X SUNS do the latter for me, there's a warmness to the tracks and plenty of atmosphere seeping through.
With only three tracks on offer here I found myself wanting more, so definitely a good sign. And hopefully a full length album won't be too far away. X SUNS have chalked up an impressive amount of gigs. Sharing the stage with Ech(((o)))es and Dust favourites Sleep Lady and also recently playing on the Sargent House tour featuring ASIWYFA, Mylets and TTNG.
The EP finishes with 'To the Bottom of the Sea' leaving you with a taste for more. Keep an eye on them and if you already lean towards vocal free music you may love them.
