Something Like Sound

Skygaze… is a combination of words. Shoegaze: “to play a musical instrument while looking at one’s shoes, esp. a guitar.” Sky: “the region of the clouds or the upper air.” While shoegaze bands of decades past may have collapsed into utter self-contempt, the form has been re-visioned by Fort Collins musician Matt Sage and his band of friends (aka M. Pyres and the Skygaze Family Band).

Unlike Sage’s previous full-length Consider Me, Ghost, Apart The Echo follows a more direct theme and general momentum. Described as “40 minutes of post punk classic rock radio transmissions. surfing high on rocky mountains or an ocean in your head,” Apart The Echo combines the delightful warmth of the lo-fi shoegazers of old with airy surf-esque guitar riffs.

Starting out with “River Song” acoustic guitars and words are supplemented with flowing, shimmery instruments (possibly guitars or keyboard?). One of the best tracks to typify the skygaze sound is “Rocky Surf,” and instrumental with heavily distorted bass, a catchy surf-guitar-riff, and drumming reminiscent of Dick Dale & The Del-Tones. Continuing on the theme of oceanside-entertainment, “Seaaes” closes the record and stands out as another highlight for the record, both musically and lyrically.

“It’s dark down here, but the water’s clear”

This record marks a few firsts for Sage and his compatriots at the newly formed Patient Sounds (intl). First, it is not simply another solo recording project, but rather a collaboration with other musicians. Second, it is the first M. Pyres release on Patient Sounds (the place where you can get this release, even on cassette), the new label formed from the ashes of the former Fir Traders Union. Finally, a free release, & New Past Tense, was also released as a “partner–not an addition–to” Apart The Echo, and is available for free download.