El Modernist are an alternative rock band based in Albany, USA who formed in 2017. Inspired by the likes of Talking Heads, Tame Impala and Arctic Monkeys, they’ve been forming their sound over the past five years, culminating in their debut LP Eras which has just been released, acting as an introduction for us to them.
By Graeme Smith
Feature photo by @auniverseofmoments
The album opens with the wonderfully upbeat and atmospheric Rancho Relaxo. It’s a great opener, setting the band apart from their indie rock contemporaries while providing a sound that is instantly accessible. I couldn’t help but nod along.
Along For The Ride takes things in a slightly more experimental direction, with reversed notes and jazzy bass. There’s something a little throwback feeling in its textured arrangement yet it somehow also feels brand new. It’s ominous atmosphere vibes perfectly with its pessimistic lyrics.
The Arctic Monkeys influence comes through strongly in Fine, a troubadour-esque, folk-tale of a rock song. Lines keeps things rock and roll, bringing with it a lively tempo and an earworm guitar riff. It’s an early highlight.
Red State comes with a stripped-back, DIY-feeling intro that quickly evolves into an offbeat piece of psych rock. Close your eyes and you let yourself be taken to somewhere in a field circa ’68. It’s a great way to round off the album’s first half.
Wake Up opens the second album in a similar era, but with added funk, bounce and dark lyrics. Friends canters along with a ’80s power rock swagger and bass-led breakdowns. It’s another highlight. New Waves revels in its uniqueness, with a story about loving being weird delivered through a popping beat and unexpected licks.
Seconds brings a late taste of the blues to this beautifully eclectic album before Something For The Weekend rounds things off. A vibrant splash of hedonism, it finishes the album’s story on a bright, unapologetic note. The perfect conclusion.
I can’t remember the last time I’ve enjoyed an album this much on first listen. El Modernist’s sound is bold, fun and channels a rich tapestry of influences, so much so there’s something for everyone in this debut. You can check out Eras below.
