go home - sno-cone

go home

sno-cone
self-released; 2017
​
3.7 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

go home is band from New York comprised Josh Mahaffey, Casey Scott Leach, Zak Houston and Marlena Mack. They released Sno​-​Cone which is hard to classify in a couple words . Why you ask? Because the songs don’t have too much of a common thread that ties them together. The band utilizes different elements and deviates from a basic guitar, bass and drum format.

Although it's a bit difficult to classify their sound there are some things that stood out. Apparently, the band has been compared to bands like Xiu Xiu, New Order, and The National. Besides the fact those bands don't have much in common I found it hard to believe they haven't got compared to The Postal Service. It's not only the fact the utilize electronic elements in a similar fashion but the lead male vocalist has undeniable similarities to Ben Gibbard.

They open with “Cattle Flesh” which certainly has it's moments. The vocals harmonies were solid and enjoyed the white noise type sound they implemented towards the end. For most of the song it feels very blocky and disjointed as if it's on the verge of coming together.  They do a good job dissolving the song and putting it back together.

“Living Life” feels a little more hefty and rooted. The beat is up front and low end is emphasized. Solid stuff. It's fairly basic programming but enjoyed the transitions and flow. “Lydia, or Jacob's Ladder” is a substantial song that has an infectious melody.

The band takes an odd turn with “Chivalry”. It sounded extremely lo-fi and was comprised of vocals and guitars. It's a decent tune but just didn't sound like it belonged on the EP since it had such a different aesthetic and organic quality.

They get back on the rails with “Salome / The Librarian” where the female vocals take the lead and is certainly her best moment. “Salome / The Librarian” was the most experimental and inventive song that paid off. I could hear a tinge of bands like The Dirty Projectors and Gang Gang Dance.

go home are a young band who seem to getting their footing with this release. There are some inspired moments as well as moments that felt a bit familiar. I can imagine them coming in their own sooner than later with some of these songs. There is a good amount to appreciate here and look forward to hearing more soon.

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