I love getting to know local music scenes. Whether it be acoustic coffee house performers or jam bands playing at the local bars, it’s always a great experience. On rare occasions you may happen to witness something special; something that sticks out from the crowd.A few weeks ago, I went to a concert at a local coffee shop, and little did I know, I would be caught in one of those aforementioned ‘rare occasions.’ The band had so many great aspects: unique and innovative sound, experimental musicality, and tantalizing lyrics to go with the package.
Fishhooks are an independent reggae-gypsy rock band from Madison, Wisconsin. They’ve recently released a five track demo album that consists of some seriously solid material. “A Quick Glimpse At Captain Fishhook” is a great place to start since it nicely encompasses every element that makes the band what it is. The song is driven by its minor tonality and folk-style lyrical structure. The simple plucking guitar and minimalistic beats behind the verses bring the listener’s attention to the short and simple poetic story of an emotionally flooded captain and his unrequited love. Progressive aspects surface when the entire the song breaks into electronic trance beats for one last epic run through the refrain, showing that these guys aren’t afraid to experiment a little.
The next track, “Bum-Biggidy,” keeps that sea-faring sound by introducing the song with a strong waltz-like drive. This track definitely does a great job at taking the listener on a roller coaster ride of intensities that greatly fit the underlying moods as the lyrics progress. I only wish the bass could be brought out more in this one to really hone in on that waltz feel.
“Japan” is another lyrical masterpiece that keeps the emphasis on poetics. The lonely tone painted by the vocals engrosses the listener and forces them to look to the instrumentals to further draw the musical scenery. This is excellently done in the guitar solo that emulates the vocal delivery, almost as if acting as its own verse in the song.
This brings us to my favorite track on the demo, “Night of the Living Glass.” The band artfully uses volume to navigate the song. From the quiet verse-to-verse synth interludes, to the surprise, in-your-face intensity jumps in the refrain, this composition poses as a great live piece. However, I do believe the organ could really sing more in the refrain. What can I say? I’m a sucker for rock pipes.
The demo closes with a great minimalist-style jam song entitled “Howitzer Flower Pot.” The way this track is written, it almost plays itself off like a jazz Real Book chart returning to the catchy falling-scale guitar ‘head’ after each verse. This one definitely has potential for open solos between each verse making for a great climax for live performances (just a thought ;) ).
I have to say I’m quite fortunate to have seen this group perform and I definitely plan on keeping my eye on these guys for a while. Fishhooks are one of a kind and I personally can’t wait to see a full album release. Keep your ears open, I can tell that this isn’t the last you’ll hear of these guys.
By the way, to all my La Crosse and Madison area readers, you each have a perfect opportunity to catch these guys play and I can’t recommend it enough. On January 7th, Fishhooks will be playing at The Frequency in Madison (right off the capitol square), and on January 23rd they will be playing at The Warehouse in downtown La Crosse alongside a great local favorite, T.U.G.G.. Trust me, it’s well worth your time to check these guys out.
In the mean time you can download the whole demo album for free by following this link:
