Snake Rattle Rattle Snake take the DIY approach to their music by writing, recording, and producing their first full length Sineater. Making up the band is a comprisal of longtime Denver indie rock alumni, with ex-members of Monofog, Mr. Pacman, and Hawks Of Paradise. Having already made waves in their local scene since their inception in 2009, the band’s more recent appearances on the stages at SXSW and CMJ have left those of us with an ear for their brand of dark rock ‘n’ roll eagerly awaiting this album.
“Hastily” starts things off right with playful guitar work that follows into a quick paced, moody, nearly hypnotic opener. “NOPD” follows, and the tempo slows, while front woman Hayley Helmericks’ voice takes the focus on this atmospheric, almost hazy track. “Kafka And Milk,” the longest song here at over seven minutes, has Snake Rattle Rattle Snake getting dance friendly, though in an ominous fashion both in sound and lyrics. The interesting basslines and synth stabs help make this one of the best moments on the album.
Considering the brooding post-punk influence and Helmericks expressive vocals, it’s hard not to think of Siouxsie & The Banshees while listening to the meticulous “Like A Moth” or the keys-heavy “Adoration.” However, there’s a lot of modern day parallels in their dance-rock tendencies, “Break The Same” taking on a similar vibe to LCD Soundsystem. At other times I’m reminded of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs as well, though in tiny fleeting moments.
This album is much more than a standard indie rock outing. The inclusion of psyche-rock amid their melodies and sometimes haunting atmospheres make this one an eclectic and intriguing disc from beginning to end. The sharp bass work, illuminated percussion, and dual guitars keep the songs constantly engaging, while the female vocals remain solid throughout. A fantastic start for this young band as well as the start-up label it’s on, I’m very much looking forward to seeing what will unfold in the future for this highly creative outfit.
