Utøya E.P.

Western Haunts
Limb And Torso
General | Nov 2011

Reviews

kevin rouff
Reviewed 2012-02-20
Western Haunts / Utøya EP / Limb & Torso Audio / 2011

Recorded in response to the tragic events in Norway and Japan in 2011, this album, led by Jake Witt, does darn good justice.
Alternative “MidWest-American” dream feel, reverb with chimes, succulent guitars over popping percussions. Still very much unknown (though they are on the rise, especially among radio folks like KEXP), these Seattle dwellers deserve airplay.
Claims influence from CSNY, Pink Floyd, Phil Spector, Beach Boys, My Bloody Valentine, Cocteau Twins, though I hear much more to these guys.
Catchy, melodious, lively, good for any time of the day, especially on overcast wake-ups.
Truly fun to listen to, as well as fun to try to sing along to (the lyrics are not easily recognizable... in a good way. get’s you humming and just enjoying).

Similar to : Beach House, Local Natives
Favorites: 1 & 2.

1**: “Pharaoh” (5:19) - The vocals are very catchy, the drums lead it along smoothly with a bounce, and the lapsteel, piano, and guitar all work great. Very good listen, full of energy, uplifting. Has a Local Natives feel.
2*: “Utøya” (5:52) - Echoes some Beach House style (especially in the vocals, despite different gender), builds up with dreamy sounds and an exploding percussion (similar to Animal Collective), yet definitely of its own
3: “Sakora” (6:31) - Slower, a thumping bass, and builds up at 2 minutes. A bit like a corny end to some 90’s slow-dance, with a modern alternative coloring. Bit harder to make out any words and the percussion seems to overwhelm a little, but still a good listen.

Recent airplay

Pharaoh
Nathin' To DoMar 15, 2012
Utøya
Feral Pop FrenzyMar 10, 2012
Pharaoh
awmeowMar 09, 2012
Utøya
meowMar 07, 2012
Pharaoh
meowFeb 29, 2012

Charting

2012-02-25 — 2012-04-28
Week EndingAirplays
Mar 18 1
Mar 11 3
Mar 4 1

Track listing

1. Pharaoh
2. Utøya
3. Sakora