Indiobravo - Breakdown // Crawl Back

Indiobravo

Breakdown // Crawl Back
Crooked Beat Records; 2015

3.3 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

The four-piece band Indiobravo consisting of Steven Bailey (vocals, guitars), Brandon Howell  (bass), Eric Doyle (drums, vocals) and Roberto Morales  (guitars, vocals) formed from the debris of other projects. Their story is a common one as bands in similar geographical areas sometimes end up recruiting a better drummer or that guitarist who is the style they want. 

The band's first release is a short two song EP Indiobravo that tips its hat to rock bands like Guided by Voices, Dinosaur Jr, early Pavement and The Replacements. I think it’s safe to say that not only the song structure but also the production is reminiscent of a good amount of lo-fi recordings from rock bands in the early ‘90s. The EP was a complete DIY production and sounds live, raw and unprocessed like some classic records like Slanted and Enchanted and Bee Thousand.

The first song is called “Breakdown” and starts with a distorted electric guitar playing chords and vocals. Drums, bass and another guitar enter into the mix before the thirty-second mark and the groove is easy to get behind. It feels like home to anyone who was and still is into indie rock bands from the early to mid ‘90s. The guitar solo has a J Mascis type vibe that has the perfect amount of crunch and distortion. Bailey’s voice wouldn't work in R&B or soul but is does just fine for rock. He’s got an almost lethargic voice that breaks at the seams during certain notes but fits the vibe and feel.

The second track “Crawl Back” is just as good as ”Breakdown” if not better. It contains a little more uplifting energy and Bailey’s vocals have a cathartic punk feel that is visceral. I enjoyed the build of the songs. It starts with delayed guitar that gets layered with more guitar which leads to fireworks when the drums enter. The song arrives at an explosive and slightly chaotic chorus. My favorite part was the last ten seconds, which leads to utter mayhem.

The two songs are around seven-minutes long so there isn’t too much you can say about this band at this point but I like what I’m hearing. I thought the band did a good job at forming a recognizable sound while also hinting at some of the more original aspects. I’m looking forward to hearing more from Indiobravo.

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