Reynolds
Field Recordings
Gringo Records

An interesting, eclectic mix of post-hardcore rock from the eastern parts of the UK that takes on a decidedly international feel, but manages to do so without being tired or derivative.  From the moody opener "This Flat Land" Field Recordings is wrought with a sense of delicate struggle, one moment unwinding carefully restrained instrumental melodies, the next eschewing the pliable rock tendencies established only moments ago for a more angular approach with choppy, almost barked vocals.  The reprieve is short lived, however, as the quartet shortly forgo the herky-jerky, pulsing amplification for the toned down pace of "Releviathan", further showcasing their instinctive, melodious foothold on the obtuse terrain mapped globally by Mogwai and Aerial M.

There is a somewhat off putting moodiness throughout the album - intense, driving build ups on the guitars peppered with lyrics that alternate between whisper and bark, only to turn on a dime and begin slowly dragging things out.  Swaying one moment, stabbing forcefully ahead the next, Reynolds throw together several varied elements in a way that isn't all that fresh but proper none the less.  A few rip offs here and there aside (a large portion of "Site Specific" sounds suspiciously like the Warmers' "Iwayy"), this album is an interesting mix between brooding, pulsating melodies and contrasting noise.  If you're into the Van Pelt or any of the more contrasting elements of Arab Strap you won't have much trouble approaching Reynolds.

Reviewed by Eric J Herboth