Carnivals – Humility EP
Carnival’s epic Humility EP is hope, positive mental thoughts, unforgettable memories, and endless delight all fused together into musical form. A more in depth exploration reveals an adventurous flight of airy vocal atmospheres dancing to the tune of melodic guitar layers effected beyond comprehension. Although the sound is huge throughout, it has many quiet moments which advance gracefully to intensified crescendos often initiated by saturated drum samples and body melting bass. Die hard Balam Acab and Shlohmo fans would definitely appreciate.
A mysterious introduction with Contrails sets the premise, a constant tug of war within contrasting moods set between light and dark overtones. I wasn’t very sure where I would end up but I was left with a feeling of serenity and awe. French Tongues opens up the soundstage even further as the drums and bass intensify to a flurry of inspiring delayed piano riffs. Carnival manages to brilliantly construct a beautiful cinematic masterpiece with an abundance of emotional tact through out. My only gripe is the amount of compression and clipping distortion I’m hearing on several of the tracks. I’m hoping a quieter version will be made available either on cassette or vinyl. Doing so should further accentuate its beautiful soundscapes with some nice analog sweetening.
- Conrad
