Sounds of Quincy - Sounds of Quincy

Sounds of Quincy

Sounds of Quincy
self-released; 2014

3.6 out of 5

By Kevin Sterne

The sound track to a classic video game—this might be the most concise and accurate description of Sounds of Quincy, an instrumental trio from Kansas. Playing mostly in major keys, with the tingly, mathy guitar reminiscent of American Football, Sounds of Quincy have crafted an easy-listener with the vibe of a low-key college party. The self-titled EP Sounds of Quincy is never too flashy or wild, but has fun moments scattered throughout, making it solidly consistent, albeit a bit on the bland side. 

By no means is this a set of songs that demands your attention at all times—but the EP is not trying to be. These five tracks are perfectly content operating as the background music of a good time. Play the debut on repeat and let it harbor in the supporting role, while you dock in the foreground. Here’s the perfect sidekick for your Friday night.

As you might imagine, Sounds of Quincy is focused less on creating a standout song and more on a singular mood that carries over nearly a half hour. There are a few shining moments, most notably the Explosions in the Sky-inspired tremolo two-thirds of the way through “Make Old New” but little else has a lasting impact. These glimmers of potential sparkle fade and eventually leave the listener longing for more. 

The EP is, without question, enjoyable, but never demanding or immediate, and this fails to make it very memorable. The post-rock landscape is as muddled (or popular) as ever right now, and standing tall with the genre’s elites like Sigur Rós, Caspian and This Will Destroy You demands crescendos, codas and more creativity. The band could even step outside their own box and add vocals for a Tiny Moving Parts vibe. Whatever their next step may be Sounds of Quincy certainly have a firm jumping-off point in their debut release. 

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