Customer Reviews

Stranded Under Endless Sky

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I have been an avid fan of Marc Byrd since I first heard his debut disc with Common Children back in college. While several people just tossed it aside as another post-grunge CD, I could hear something in the music that set it apart from the rest of the group. After a follow-up CD that was phenomenal and a short hiatus, the band reconvened to release the stunning, "In Between Time". This CD is the beginning of a transition that has become fully realized with his new band, Hammock.

Hammock introduced themselves with "Kenotic" and it was an instant hit amongst the shoegaze/post-rock scene. Shortly after this release, Marc and Andrew set up shop to lay down the four tracks that comprise the, "Stranded Under Endless Sky" EP. I can honestly say that these 4 songs are the strongest material to date from the band. I find myself listening to this release much more than the Kenotic release. The arrangements are beautiful and are much more peaceful than the debut full-length. We also are graced with more cello from the ever-talented Matt Slocum. As the seasons begin to change and the air becomes crisper and cooler, you can bet that this EP will be in heavy rotation as the seasons begin to change for us.

I have had the pleasure of working with the guys on this release and was able to offer a vinyl version of the record in a limited pressing.

I first heard Hammock as they put out their "Kenotic" album. I was hypnotized from the first note. "Stranded Under Endless Sky" is no different, except in one respect: it's even better. Without any lyrics, this time around, the bulk of the album is centered around the atmospheres the instruments create, transporting you if you accidentally close your eyes and forget you are listening to music.

It is hard to balance so well so much power in a guitar with such subtle soundscapes. The four tracks in Hammock's "Stranded Under Endless Sky", with their blend of ambient and shoegazing, make you let go and leave you wanting more. Like an exquisite musical chocolate, their music almost melts in your mouth. I find myself with either their "Kenotic" album or this EP by my bedside, as I start to get in the mood to drift into sleep. You probably should too...

On Stranded Under Endless Sky, Monarch plays the most soothing, heartbreaking music. The CD features 4 tracks of ambient guitar work, minimal percussion, found noises, and strings, but as always with Hammock that mere descrption falls short. The Ep begins with the title track, a lethargic study in lingering guitar melodies that are wrapped in a dreamy haze. After meandering about, the song lingers in a moment of echoing delay and swirling atmospherics. The second track is a the graceful "Birds Flying in Sequence". The song is a pastoral song, with a simple, repetitive, but highly hypnotic melodu playing over soft drones and muted percussion. The song builds beautifully, before erupting into an expansive melody without losing the introspective mood. "Always Wishing You Were Somewhere Else" is as wistful as the title suggests, with a dark undertone of drones and ambience supporting a singular guitar line that bends throughout its melody. As the song progresses it portrays with clarity the longing and regret expressed in the song's title. Finally, the ever-so-quiet "An Empty Field" rounds out the Ep...this song slowly and queitly builds with its distant guitar lines that are variously effected. Part way through the over 9 minute song (and not one second of it is unengaging), the melody changes, and the song incorporates a gorgeous cello part that likewise soothes and inspires.

I remember first hearing Hammock's music in the dark coldness of late December last year. As the seasons change now in my part of the world, with the chil lreturning in the wind and the leaves falling to the ground, I can't think of a better EP to be the soundtrack of autumn. Or, for that matter, any season in which one wants to connect with the organic and eternal. A beautiful EP that deserves to be listened to by many many people. I highly recommend it!

Well what do ya know. Hammock is back with another great release. Hammock are a band who completely surround the listener with sound.I could only imagine how large they would sound in concert. There is a nice uncomplicated feel to their music. Even though it's quite complex. A lot of bands could really benefit from learning that trick from these guys. The listening of their music is an experience that is truly one that you will never regret. The guitar lines and effects are there as usual. But somehow they managed to top theirlast release Kenotic. Which was something I didn't think was possible.

The disc starts off with the title track. A nice subtle drone and distortion linger throughout. The music just floats around your headputting you in a trance like state. The relaxing ambience only getsbetter with each track. This album maybe a little slower then the last one. But none the more effective. "Birds Flying In Sequence" starts out
with a nice tribal feel. Once the guitar and bass take control. The song then begins to take on true form. I can only imagine how these guys feel when they listen to their finished project. They must be so proud.

The natural beauty of their releases is something every person should experience. Undeniably there's power in the voice and atmosphere of their music. Hammock are the musical equivalent of the most relaxing body massage. This release deserves so much attention. I hope after reading this a few of you will feel obligated to purchase this masterpiece.

The music of Hammock is really unlike anything I've ever heard... Their music is so beautiful, that I can't wait for their next album...