In The Whale EP ‘Quicksand’ review

In The Whale will release their new EP, ‘Quicksand,’ on Oct. 21. The Denver-based duo delivers direct rock without varnish or pageantry.

In The Whale will release their EP entitled Quicksand on Oct. 21. The Denver-based duo is comprised of Nate Valdez on vocals/guitar and Eric Riley on drums/vocals. The two men previously released three short records, with Quicksand being the fourth. An old-school rock band, The Whale would have been at home in the early days of CBGBs.

Quicksand opens with a pared-down rock tune called “LA.” Here, both Valdez and Riley demonstrate they have the chops on their respective instruments. An accessible track, it contains a rawness in presentation reminiscent of punk. However, “LA” does not fully tip into ‘punk music’ per se.

Second up on the album is “American Eyes.” The vocals in this song are strained in an authentic way. Contributing to a sense that the duo is talking to a person rather than an audience, there is nothing shiny in this track. Following “American Eyes” is “Medicate.” The Whale crosses the line into a more squarely punk vibe in this song. A faster tune with heavier tones, simple and repetitive lyrics evoke old-school anthems.

Quicksand continues with “Galaxie,” which could easily snag a spot on rock-alternative radio stations. With a catchy hook and almost Weezer-like chorus, “Galaxie” is sure to engage a wide audience. Finally, “07-13-14” closes the album. Something slightly Depeche Mode-ish seeps into the opening on this track. In a strong wrap-up, “07-13-14” is the most radio-ready tune on Quicksand.

In The Whale is a solid band, which may have come on the scene at the wrong time. It seems these gentlemen would have been comfortable rocking out on the lower east side in the late ‘70s. However, their music manages to stand on its own. Audiences will be glad to hear this latest installment and will look forward to more in the future.