Search - Sleeping People :: Sleeping People

Genius, Neck-Breaking Work From San Diego

Nathan Lindsay | San Diego, CA | 09/16/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Evoking such a loaded word as "Genius" to describe any contemporary work of art is dangerous in, and of, itself and using such description demands some pretty heavy backing. Rest assured that the quintet, comprised of Kenseth Thibideau (who also lends his talent to fellow San Diego artists Pinback), Kasey Boekholt, Amber Coffman (who replaced Joileah Concepcion, the original guitarist for this recording) and Brandon Relf deliver a powerhouse gem of both innovative and creative work.



Quirky, intelligent, complex, precise, flowing, heavy, alluring and on and on and on. Sleeping People's debut release (produced by Jay Pellicci of 31 Knots) is a clean production showcasing each member's respective talents and the foursomes innate ability to produce some of the best progressive rock to date. Rich rhythms are counterbalanced by neck-breaking changes and sewn seamlessly together by Thibideau's bass lines.



If you're looking for some interesting and breathtaking instrumental sounds then this release is a must have for your collection.

"

Jazz Rock? Progressive Metal? I just know it's great.

Melkor | San Diego, CA USA | 10/06/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I first saw Sleeping People open for Pinback a few years ago. Pinback are an incredible live band, but this was one of the very few times that I saw an opening band blow away the headliner that I came to see. It was an insane mixture of jazz and metal. They brought to mind the tight mental connectiveness of a Melvins live show, mixed with the incredible musical experimentation and energy of bands like King Crimson, and mentally complex time signature changes of artists like Miles Davis or Charles Mingus.



I've been waiting quite impatiently for a CD by Sleeping People. There have been a few line-up changes since I first saw the band, and I was not sure what to think about them releasing a studio album. I didn't know if they could capture in the studio the aggressiveness and rawness of their live show. I think part of what makes their live show so exciting is the fact that they actually pull these complex songs off. To my delight, the CD is incredible. The band and the recording sound wonderful. I've never heard anything like this before.



That's the whole problem. They are so original, I don't really know how to describe their music to people. "Jazz Rock" sounds too soft and pretentious. "Progressive Metal" brings to mind either bands like Tool, Isis, and Pelican; and Sleeping People sound very different from those wonderful bands. That is why I like Sleeping People so much. One thing I can say, is that there is an incredible amount of musicianship in this band. The rhythm section blows my mind! The whole band keeps up a high level of energy throughout the recording. Just when you think they can't keep it going, they kick it up another notch.



So, if you like trying new things, do yourself a favor and pick up this CD. Also, see them live if you can. They are a wonderful band, and it will be an experience you will not forget anytime soon."