- Are they in China?
Eidolons’ 10-song China is a guitar-fueled journey from math rock to alt-folk. The album, which at times channels OK Computer-era Radiohead and more modern Real Estate-esque garage rock, spans genres with ease.
China’s journey begins with math rock inspired drumming on tracks “Milonga for a Long Face” and “Xylem and Phloem.” The guitar is sharp and angular, and fractured percussion carries the melodies. The title track serves as an instrumental interlude: a synth-rich transition from freak to folk, pushing the album into faster paced accessibility.
The second half of China is much more predictable. While the guitar remains textured and intricate, the vocals soften, and drums fade the background. It isn’t until the album’s final track “Sam Jo’s Cosmic Special Pt. 2 (Global Love Initiative)” that the band claims its self-proclaimed experimental, freak folk sound. A mixture of guitar, synth, and spoken word, the song is a cliffhanger—perhaps a sign of things to come.
Eidolons recently returned to Portland after a short tour with Shiner. The band is playing with Animal Eyes at Kelly’s Olympian on July 28 and promises future dates. If China is any indication of this band’s potential, they are worth keeping an ear to the ground.
LISTEN:
Eidolons - "Xylem and Phloem"