Battles

MIRRORED
Warp, 2007

Battles brings talents from Helmet, Tomahawk, Lynx, Don Caballero, and Storm & Stress (as well as Tyondai Braxton, son of free jazz great Anthony Braxton) and blends them into an absolutely intoxicating brew. Nothing out there is really anything like this (besides Battles’ previous EPs), but imagine the best parts of tribal rock, math rock, and post-rock given muscle. THAT is Battles. You may be familiar with "Atlas", with its absolutely incredible video. Well, the whole album is THAT good! My personal faves are the epic "Tonto" and "Rainbow"; these two tracks have a sort of propulsion that’s rare in most modern music. Everyone may be wondering what a guitar based band is doing on Warp. Well, take a listen and it all becomes clear. The gonzo processed vocals add a nice touch too. ABSOLUTELY recommended!

- Adam Naworal