Band Spotlight, Check Out Maps and Atlases

Hello world,

After bashing certain Northwest AC/DC fans with my last post I figured I would contrast it with something I like. Today I bring you the band Maps and Atlases. The band hails from Chicago, Illinois and I would describe their sound as folk sounding math rock. Think speed metal with clean, jangly guitars, tambourines and bongo drums. What makes this band stand out is their unusual riffs and musical placements. The idea behind math rock is the quick pace and frequent calculated timing changes. Basically it’s a rock version of jazz. This is the first band that I have heard apply that to more folk sounding rock. Although the pace of most of the songs are fast and the instrumentation seems to wander they don’t lack interest. Listening to this band is like trying to solve a puzzle. Because each song has so much going on I can’t just listen to a song and move on. Every listen I find myself focusing on something different in each song. Every instrument is playing on its own yet it fits together with all the others. This band is a buffet of sound, there is so much there but you cant have it all at once. The only choice is to fill your plate and keep coming back for more. The lyrics are not as upfront as the sound of the band but they fit well with the flow of each song. I would say that this band is best suited for a listen while on a quick run or short drive. The next time you need a little pick me up or are a little bored give this band a go around and see if you don’t feel better.