Pile - Sunshine And Balance Beams

Unique from the very first note. You know from the first 5 seconds of the opening track that this album will be a stand out from this year.

Introspective and from the heart. From the lyrical content to the musical mastery, Pile are a special band. Ever since I discovered their track 'Prom Song' from the band's 2012 album 'Dripping', I've been hooked and I've never understood why they haven't ever become bigger than they are. These 9 tracks clock in at a run time of 42 minutes and 10 seconds long and every second that passes will keep you gripped. 'Born At Night', 'A Loosened Knight' and 'Deep Clay' are recomended listens to represent the gritter, harsher side of this album where the group are able to really tap in to your emotions with wirey whimsical guitar work and swaggering QOTSA style vocals at points. 'Uneasy' may be the stand out track for me. There's sound effects that could be straight from a retro 8 bit arcade game and medival Lute's crossed with steady but heavily distorted drums. All supporting a demanding vocal performance that is one of the better the band has released. All in all, this might be my personal favorite album of the year so far. Rating 5/5