Red Train Graphing the Sunset

Like a blues shouter who’s never heard a blues chord progression, Amy Vecchione (who is indeed credited with “blues vocals” on the band’s website) moans and wails, carefully modulating her voice, slurring phrases, singing off mic, etc. beautifully – only atonally. Meanwhile, her partners use guitar and drums, yes, but also oscillators and other noise generators to whip up mayhem, settle back down, raise the stakes again. It sounds at once like improv’d noise and premeditated a-blues maelstrom. They appear to be Portland-based. That might have something to do with it all. Or not. It’s fucked up but like a car crash, it draws your attention and even exhibits some artful elements in the wreckage. Love the Onion-worthy photo on their home page:http://yumanora.gq.nu/