Old Gray/Tiny Moving Parts
Split EP [7-inch] (2014)
Jon
The split showcases the transition that Old Gray and Tiny Moving Parts are each making to evolve their sound. The first side opens with Old Gray’s "Clip Your Own Wings,†a song that reminds me of Brand New’s “Tatou†only heavier, because of its atmospheric hard hitting rhythm that relies heavily on the bass and drums to create a full sound that becomes thicker as the song concludes.
“An Epitaph†is a complete contrast from “Clip Your Own Wings,†adding a melodically heavy song with super intricate parts typical of Old Gray. The Song has an extremely interesting and melodic interlude giving the song a true variety that ultimately leads to an acapella Cameron Boucher screaming his heart out in the last few lines, ending Old Gray’s side.
What Truly shines is Tiny Moving Parts’ side of the split. In hindsight, The Band showcased two songs that would ultimately serve as a great transition between This Couch is Long & Full of Friendship and Pleasant Living.
“Swimming Lessons†is extremely melodic and catchy while still maintaining the sound that the band has originated. The song has so many different parts that it’s hard to believe it's only three minutes. Yet, the band maintains their catchy lyricism and intricate sound with complex guitar and full-fledged rhythm section.
The final song, “Fair Trade†is originally what attracted me to the band. Before seeing them live, “Fair Trade†was the only Tiny Moving Parts' song I was familiar with and was intrigued by the energy and dual vocals between vocalist/guitarist, Dylan Mattheisen and bassist Matthew Chevalier. The song has one of the catchiest hooks on the split and possibly on any of Tiny Moving Parts’ songs. Mattheisen’s guitar playing is extremely unique and is a spectacle to watch during their energetic live sets.
Both band’s efforts on this split are impressive and show a nice insight into what their discographies sound like.