Porcelain Giants - Lackluster Authority

Porcelain Giants

Lackluster Authority
self-released; 2015

3.6 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

The three-piece band Porcelain Giants comprised of Domenick Zerilli (keyboard), Gordon Beck (lead guitar) and Adam Chafee (guitar/bass) from Ithaca, New York recently released their debut EP entitled Walking Trees. They play instrumental music and despite no lead vocal they were able to keep my attention quite easily. The songs sound full and the band usually implements some type of lead that tends to be the focal point of the song

They DIY style when it came the recording and all things considered, it sounds good. The band took their time in post-production and the proof is in the pudding.

The band kicks off the album with “Lackluster Authority” which revolves around synth bass, tranquil bells, organic drums and a driving guitar riff. It’s a smooth groove but still feels kinetic. As the song progresses more momentum is built around the guitars and synth bass. It’s a tight song and certainly had me wondering what else the band is capable of. Turns out much more.

Up next is “Walking Tree” which is more upbeat and energetic. The band breaks out a funky, danceable groove but doesn’t get stuck on it for too long. They tear it down with piano only to build it back up. The cascading piano was effective but I wasn’t a fan of the clean almost new age tone. A little bit of grit and distortion might have helped out.

“The Normal Flow” which is just under two minutes was another solid tune that's focal point was whistling. It worked well and didn’t sound like a novelty. The melancholy vibe served as an effective transition to the more upbeat “Seldom Bombing.”.

“Seldom Bombing” has a fun, easy going vibe and if there was a case for a song needing a lead vocal this would have been it. The guitar barely holds it down for the three-plus-minutes. “Space Aged Fashion” is a strong closer that works because of the arpeggiated synths and serene guitar work. 

Porcelain Giants built a solid foundation but I have a feeling they are just getting started. The EP is enjoyable but not completely filling. I could see the band going in the direction of group like Out Hud if they continue to improve.

Tweet