Customer Reviews

Law

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

On first listen, Law struck me as an appealing handful of alt-jazz-folk-rock instrumentals that are pleasant to listen to and very unassuming. Cougar sounds as good coming out of your living room stereo at low volumes as they do blasting through your headphones, and they require very little effort to enjoy. After repeated listens (and there have been many), I've found the simplicity of the record to be deceiving. Each song is far more dynamic than you first realize, and every instrument and bizarre sound effect is impeccably recorded and perfectly realized. It's not life changing, but as a debut I'm more than impressed.

Ratatat and Cougar are two very different bands, but I think it's important to point out how much more rewarding of a listen Law is as an instrumental "rock" record. It's simultaneously easier to passively listen to and more interesting to actively listen to. Cougar has a great vibe and I know I'll be enjoying this for awhile.

On the first listen, Madison based (Wisconsin, US) instrumental five-piece band, Cougar, sounds peculiar - not fitting into any specific classification (and proud of it!), yet tending to be loosely associated with post-rock more than any other genre. But after returning to their debut album, Law, for the second time, I realize that it's exactly what I want to hear. Describing their music as "emergency rock" geared towards "rescue culture", Cougar experiments with beats, harmony, and structure. The production ranges from electronic to organic, reminding me of earlier tracks by Telefon Tel Aviv (minus the glitch) and perhaps even Four Tet. Some rhythms are influenced by electronica and I would go as far as say upbeat instrumental hip-hop beats. There's also a special treat in the "intermissions" between the main tracks. Throughout the album, Cougar sprinkles five consecutively named sketches. These are the experimental pieces that are extremely fun to listen to, reminiscent of pieces on Radiohead's Kid A - I only wish they were expanded into full tracks. The exploratory approach of Cougar's composition brings back the curiosity and excitement which I first encountered through Grails. There is no formula. There is no tiring structure. On Law, Cougar switches gears and takes you into a new direction at a whim. And the mastering is outstanding - I guess it has to be, when you find out that John McEntire (Tortoise and The Sea and Cake) is behind the production. I find myself returning to Cougar over and over. Recommended for the above mentioned names, plus if you like 65daysofstatic, Yndi Halda, Saxon Shore, and This Will Destroy You.

This album is one of my favorite never expected to like, but thoroughly enjoyed bands. It is apparent that the band puts so much passion into making this album after only listening to the first few songs. Hope to see them in person someday soon -- think of Charlotte, NC!

The best instrumental music I have ever heard. It's true genius. It sounds like falling in love and every other memory that makes your insides feel full and soggy; it reminds you how much you have lived. I felt like I had taken a good look at every important point of my life and felt it all again by the end of the album the first time I listened to it through. It is honestly soul shattering.

While this album takes some time to get into, it is most certainly worth it. I studied under the guitarist for this group, and his unique approach to theory and composition ties jazz and alternitive and puts a spin on them making neither genre a suitable definition.

Simply amazing.