Blind Atlas – Kodiak Bear

Not the Bear's Claws

Blind Atlas is an americana band from Manchester so their influences are obvious in reflecting the 60s/70s roots of this genre as well as more contemporary British reference points [they cite Radiohead as one of many influences....], but the pedal and fiddle/viola are probably more significant in establishing their sound. It doesn’t rage – second 4^th Street is probably the rowdiest, though it’s a neatly controlled argument between fiddle, guitar and pounding drums - and there are a few maudlin moments, for example Damned Words which is actually one of the best tracks, but its mid-tempo whole is a fine example of very good songwriting and playing, Brother Moon exemplifying with its solid guitar - a mix of slide and some fuzz - the background organ swirl, and the rising melody. It's a gentle listen overall, caressing rather than gouging with claws.