Search - Relay :: Still Point of Turning

How am I only hearing this group now?!?

scott martin | milwaukee, wi | 11/01/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a record I took a chance on and was not disappointed. I think I saw their name in a magazine ad for their label, Bubblecore, and was intrigued by the description- something along the lines of "swirling, shoegaze, keyboard psych-rock". I've been really getting into the so-called "shoegaze" bands, both modern groups and the originators, so I made a mental note to check them out.

I heard a the song "Context" on the Bubblecore website and was totally blown away. It was like the band reached into my brain and pulled out the sounds I've been waiting to hear. I can see where Relay could be categorized with other shoegazer bands, but there are some notable differences. They share a penchant for layered, effects-laden guitars and swirling keyboards, BUT... These songs are generally more up-tempo and propulsive than say, Slowdive. They don't have the tendency toward gloomy depression or any kind of gothic overtones either. If anything, they take the ideas that originated in the late 80's and early 90's and carry them forward- way forward. I should cut this short, because I'm starting to gush. I would certainly recommend this disc to anyone who likes intelligent, interesting guitar music. Also check out their previous EP called Type/Void. I think the full-length is stronger, but the EP should not be missed either. Since I discovered that I could actually find decent music on Amazon, I've discovered a lot of great music I wouldn't have heard otherwise. If you're reading this, check out a record called Constance by a group called Southpacific, also a German band called Couch that is doing really cool instrumental stuff. Silver by Jesu is one of the awesomest records I've heard in a while...And remember there's more to this music than My Bloody Valentine- if you haven't heard Slowdive, check them out, especially Souvlaki. I know there's many others I'm forgetting here as well.

I can't believe I'm the first person to review this record- I sincerely hope others will also take a chance on this relatively unknown band."

From out of nowhere

0=0 | Earth | 11/09/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Actually Relay are a four piece rock band from Philly, PA and yes, they can kick Rocky's butt. I had the pleasure of seeing relay live for the first time, in DC , and became an instant fan. I had no idea who they were or what they sounded like, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I heard them channel the spirits of Joy Divison, Kitchens of Distinction, Lush, and MBV that evening and was even more pleased when I put their cd --this cd into my car system going home. Think of the music of all the bands I just mentioned but think of the tempo and energy being pumped up twice as high. They have a firm knowledge of the influences from back in the day while taking those influences into the now, into the future. Hopefully more people will discover this band and hopefully Relay will have more to offer in a world full of lackluster, far too egocentric rock and roll posers."