In space, time can drift forever, but here on Earth if just felt that way waiting for Orion's debut release. The time has arrived though as their EP, "10011011," is finally available, and well worth the wait! I know that I had previously done a small pre-review of two of the four tracks that make up this EP, but I have received the full completed package, and felt it needed to be brought to the attention of rock music fans everywhere.
First, let me give you a little background on the bands history. This information is being re-printed from their record label Pop Up Records band biography. Orion was formed in 2006 in Lawrence, Kansas and consists of members Brad Chancellor [drums], Patrick Crough [vocals/guitar], and Lance Attack [bass]. The trio derives from a collective of previous Mid West acts which include: Tablets Of Orion, Reggie And The Full Effect, Earthen, and Chicago 7. Orion credit their sound to major musical influences including but not limited to: Failure, HUM, Shiner, Self, ON, Weezer, Far, Quicksand, Helmet, Handsome, and Jawbox. After spending much of 2007 recording, Orion teamed up with Pop Up Records in 2008 and made contribution to "The Nurse Who Loved Me: A Tribute To Failure" with their recording of "Another Space Song". In addition the band signed on with Pop Up Records to release their debut CD-EP entitled "10011011" which has been described as "the next great hope for the current era of space rock" (which I believe was by me in my May posting regarding them)! Orion showcase the ability to fuse infectious melody with raw power and are intent on leaving a mark. Expect to see and hear a lot more from this band in the future. Step into the light, begin boarding, and prepare for take-off.
Now onto the music...
The EP beings with "The Broadcast," a bouncing melodic track with the memorable chorus line, "Is it always this cold, wherever you go?" This song achieves great visuals from the lyrics, with an upbeat hopefulness to the sound. The drums double over top of each other while the thick guitars tear between rusty distortion to heavenly soaked chorus sounds. "Friction," follows and gives a stronger nod to the sound Failure created in the 90s. As I said in my review of this song a few months ago, I still feel this is one of the best space rock songs since Failure and Hum graced the scene. The guitar tones that chug during the beautifully melodic verses drift into a haze of sound during the choruses. The bridge adds another great texture of layering from all three band members before going back into the hook. Strong drumming helps to keep these songs firmly routed, and the vocal melodies create a familiarity after just a few listens. Mixing great space themed imagery with emotional lyricism, Orion have created something out of this world, and very down to Earth at the same time. Radio accessible and friendly without being lame, this is music that demands to be played over and over.
"Hi-Fi Sci-Fi," picks up the intensity level its brooding drums and bass creating an ominous landscape for its wandering guitar lines. The vocal melody has a strong angular quality to it that settles during the hook. Orion create great contrast between vocals and music as one calms, the other usually explodes. When the vocals of the chorus seem to hit at its most accessible, the guitars surge and destroy. The album always keeps a consistent remorseful sound with an underlying feeling of hope. "A Farewell," the final track on the EP especially drives this feeling home, as they have created a beautiful send off for their friend who has passed away. Dealing with saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy, but Orion has accomplished this with a great degree of elegance and passion. This track moves in intense shifts with heavy layers of guitar and bass being supported by a strong drum beat that blends right into the mix as it washes away into the final moments of the album.
Clocking in at less than 17 minutes in length, it's an understatement to say that it leaves the listener wanting more. After every listen I hope for another 10 or so tracks to appear on my CD, but all in due time. For now, I can be thankful that at least Orion have released 10011011 to the masses, and patiently wait for what I'm sure will be a long and promising career from this space rock trio. 10011011 is an incredible, even if it's short, journey through the depths of emotions and the sounds of space. Together with Orion, Satellite Tragedy's debut album (see May posts), and the upcoming B.L. Barakus/Beta Lyrae split release, Pop Up Records looks to be quickly emerging as one of the top independent labels in the country!
You can order Orion's 10011011 EP from this link here Give them a listen and let me know what you think!
Orion's myspace page
Pop Up Records myspace page
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