Being Dead kicks off their second album, EELS, with a quirky love song dedicated to Godzilla titled “Godzilla Rises.” This track sets the tone for the rest of the album, showcasing the Austin duo’s unique blend of absurdity, humor, and emotion. Despite the seemingly silly lyrics, the band’s genuine longing for the King of the Monsters shines through, making for a surprisingly touching tribute. With members Falcon Bitch and Shmoofy (formerly Gumball), Being Dead embraces their goofiness while delivering music that is both fun and heartfelt.
The Quirky Charm of EELS
EELS is a relentless, hooky album that explores themes with more freedom than the band’s debut, When Horses Would Run. While their first album delved into the mythos of the American West, EELS focuses on intricate details and powerful emotions. Tracks like “Blanket of My Bone” evoke the intensity of a first crush in just three minutes. Being Dead expertly weaves together elements of egg punk, cowboy kitsch, and surf rock, creating a sound that is both scrappy and precise. Both Falcon Bitch and Shmoofy take turns on vocals, creating a dynamic interplay that adds depth to their music.
Exploring Gender Dynamics Through Music
Being Dead’s lyrics often play with gender roles and expectations, adding a nostalgic touch to their songs. On tracks like “Dragons II,” the band showcases a blend of vulnerability and humor, creating a unique listening experience. Their vocal dynamics draw inspiration from bands like Unrest and X, where male-female vocal tension adds an extra layer of complexity to the music. By treating dueling vocals as a lead instrument, Being Dead creates a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Regional Influences and Satirical Themes
While EELS moves away from the western pastiche of their debut album, regional influences still play a significant role in Being Dead’s music. Tracks like “Big Bovine” and “Ballerina” evoke images of country life under the Lonestar stars, blending jingoistic themes with subtle satire. The band’s perspective on Americana, reminiscent of Richard Prince’s art, adds depth to their music, turning everyday moments into powerful statements. EELS explores themes of innocence and growing up, presenting characters on the brink of adulthood with a sense of irony and camp.
Navigating Realistic Stories with a Wink
Throughout the album, Being Dead weaves tales of everyday struggles, from mundane jobs to post-party blues. Tracks like “Problems” capture the uncertainty of youth, drawing parallels to the early days of Talking Heads. The band’s ability to infuse realistic stories with humor and charm adds a unique edge to their music, making for a compelling listening experience.
Conclusion
Being Dead’s second album, EELS, is a testament to the band’s ability to blend humor, emotion, and nostalgia into a cohesive musical experience. With a unique vocal dynamic and a knack for storytelling, the duo creates music that is both fun and thought-provoking. EELS is a journey through quirky themes and regional influences, offering a fresh take on rock’n’roll that is sure to resonate with listeners.
FAQs
Q: What inspired Being Dead’s unique sound on EELS?
A: Being Dead draws inspiration from a variety of influences, including regional themes, gender dynamics, and classic rock acts.
Q: How does EELS differ from the band’s debut album?
A: EELS explores more thematic freedom and intricate details compared to the western-inspired sound of When Horses Would Run.
Q: What can listeners expect from Being Dead’s vocal interplay on EELS?
A: The band’s dueling vocals serve as a lead instrument, adding depth and complexity to their music.
Credit: pitchfork.com
