It's easy to draw a thick line between signed and unsigned bands. A lot of us mentally accept someone on a major label as having 'made it,' regardless of their music's quality. We find it easier to dismiss an amateur act because, hey, no agent or label goon has paid attention to them, so why should I? Our modern perspective has evolved from the new American dream: getting as rich as possible by any means necessary, and in a world where rich = success, the perception of art will inevitably be diminished. Because of this decidedly modern dilemma, hearing music unsullied by profit is oftentimes refreshing.
Having said that, there is also a refinement process which most unsigned bands haven't fully experienced, and which most major labels unnaturally force upon their acts. Steeler, the self released EP from Malmo, is surprisingly coherent coming from such an 'unsigned band,' though at times it struggles to maintain interest. Fortunately a singular 'vision' is still apparent, and can be credited to the fact that Malmo is actually the sole work of 24-year old Michale Pang. Through the course of five songs (all of which can be downloaded on the Malmo web site), Pang explores an apparent fascination with color chord rock (think Mogwai or Mono) and comparatively traditional '80s inflected pop. All of the songs tread along at a similar tempo, leaving enough open space for hushed vocals to set a decidedly melancholy mood.
There is nothing overtly original about Malmo's approach to the pop/rock formula, but a solid set of songs and a short running length make Steeler easier to swallow than, say, a more overblown Joy Division rip off. Multiple listens also reveal delayed guitar textures and subtly distorted drum segments boiling just below the surface. Yet only when the balls out, heavily distorted sections hit are we treated to the records more original and appealing dynamic. Fittingly enough, the Mogwai-esque flourishes are delegated to the first and last songs; a bookend juxtaposition that is both jarring in volume and aesthetic. In these tracks, you will either find Steeler's slightly rough sound and performance least distracting, or most charming. For me, hearing this specific brand of rock without the big budget sheen or heavy '80s reverb was the biggest selling point. And it never hurts to support an unsigned band, especially when they have this much potential.
1. Greet Death Version 2.0
2. Memento Mori
3. Everything is Super
4. Digging
5. Tilted Hates Played Out, You're Played Out
More about: Malmo
