Fort Collins, CO indie rock band Race to Neptune impresses on their adventurous, distorted, and at times, retro-sounding EP, ‘Abandon Fashion.’

“Influenced by a notion of natures, colorful sounds throughout time, the fiercely beautiful, and ambiguously poetic words and noise, Race to Neptune radiate powerfully delicate dynamics with evocative vocal melodies.” Wow – that was a poetic excerpt from the bio of the standout, unsigned, indie rock band from Fort Collins, Colorado.  In addition to being alt/indie, their music also encompasses ‘art rock.’ A foursome, the band is comprised of Brian Maier (guitar and vocals), Zach Berger (guitar), Matt McNear (bass), and Matt Peterson (drums). Among the influences of the band include The Beatles, The Cure, Jimi Hendrix, and Modest Mouse.  Their various influences and “colorful sounds” and noise shine on their stellar EP, Abandon Fashion.

“Mortal Melody”

“Mortal Melody” kicks off Abandon Fashion with a bang.  Race to Neptune allows the music to ‘speak for itself’ with a rhythmic, extended instrumental intro.  This last for about half the duration of the song, showcasing the band’s musicianship.  It also showcases a love for distorted, biting guitars, robust bass, and boisterousness in general.  An excellent change of pace occurs at about the two-minute mark. This helps usher in the aggressive, gritty vocals by Brian Maier, which are supported by an ultra-driving groove and angst-laden guitars.  For Maier, the accuracy of pitch is merely secondary, meant to capture the rawness suggested by the title. It’s highly effective. Also, worth noting is a rousing guitar solo.  “Mortal Melody” rocks – understatement.

“Departure” doesn’t spend nearly as much time setting up. A minute shorter, following a brief, slightly mellower intro, Maier gets to work with his commanding, nuanced pipes. He’s at his best on the powerful chorus, backed by music that matches his intensity.  Even if “Departure” is slightly simpler, and more straightforward compared to the opener, it remains compelling, continuing to exhibit the adventurous and ambitious of Race to Neptune.

“Sunsets”

Penultimate record “Sunsets” is the most optimistic yet, set in a sunny, major key and referencing California. The 60s, psychedelic rock influence really shine through on this particular number. The guitars carry a warmer, more optimistic tone, starkly different from the distortion of “Mortal Melody.” Meanwhile, the drums pummel, exhibiting ample intensity, while the bass remains robust, laying the roots, but also coloring with distinct countermelodic lines.  This collective clearly has musicianship on their side, working extremely well as a cohesive unit.  Vocally, Maier continues to shine and most of all, rock.

Enigma characterizes “Abandon Fashion,” which gives Abandon Fashion the closing record it deserves.  If you need an example of an indie rock band going “H.A.M.,” well this is it. The guitars begin eerie and unsettling on this instrumental gem – there’s the sense that ‘it’s about to go down.’  The bass and drums amplify the mystery initially, with spare entrances and lines that are important to the overall success of the record.  Of course, there’s resolution, and “Abandon Fashion” stabilizes with a driving groove, propelled by drums and bass, while the guitars remain locked into frightening, extraterrestrial sounds.  Soon enough, even that fades, with jamming from the guitars, cool countermelodies from the bass, and a soundscape that’s incredibly spirited.

Final Thoughts 

If you’re an indie rock fan, and Race to Neptune isn’t on your radar, well you need to totally ‘get on that.’ This Colorado band has plenty to offer, most of all their love for distortion and the appreciation and influence of the classic music of old.  But it’s not all about the past – they have a clear idea of what their musical identity is and execute it well.  Abandon Fashion (EP) = winner.

Gems: “Mortal Melody” & “Abandon Fashion”

Race to Neptune • Abandon Fashion (EP) • Race to Neptune • Release: 5.26.18

Photo Credit: Race to Neptune

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