Drunken Palms, Somber, Hex Visions
Recommended
Listening to Drunken Palms’ new release, the modestly titled Demos ii, feels like stumbling upon a timeless piece of indie rock. Members of the Portland three-piece have patiently honed their skills over the course of three humble releases, and it’s paying off. The eerie pacing of Demos ii adds an element of urgency to singer Katelyn Mundal’s evocative vocals without ever feeling strained, particularly on its simple but relentless bass-centric tracks. Each song is delicate but seems as though it’s trying to break out of itself, or to achieve the emotional epicness of bands like Arcade Fire and the Antlers. Though they don’t quite meet this level of grandeur, Drunken Palms’ sweet trepidation makes their music accessible and digestible but still eerie and impassioned. EMMA BURKE