EASTERN YOUTH “365 Step Blues”
I’ve come to the conclusion that EASTERN YOUTH deserves better. Certaintly from me. The jewel case for 365 Step Blues has been dropped from about 6 feet up twice, and the CD itself was bounced in a crappy jewel case over the many days it was brought to work but never listened to. But workmanlike, through it all, it didn’t let up on me, and when I sheepishly put 365 Step Blues into my CD player, I knew I was in for something, alright. The cover art of a train station done in grays, black and and muted aquas describe the music perfectly. Here is a CD made for zoning out on a train after a long day of work. A less abrasive FUGAZI is an apt comparison; an album that exists in the freeways of the mind somewhere between exhaustion and decompression from another day that feels like just the rest. Of course, this comes with a caveat. EASTERN YOUTH sing in Japanese. For the first couple songs, it’s an irritant, but once you get used to it, the vocals become their own instrument, which goes in and out of the songs as it chooses. It’s expansive without being meandering, and takes its time without being plodding. If it sounds like I’m struggling to find words to describe this release, I am. It’s indie rock without having the Pitchfork approved stamp on it and there’s moments where save for the language issue, it could be Chuck from Hot Water Music fronting a highly rhythmic indie/post-hardcore band. And then there’s moments where the EASTERN YOUTH’s singer opens his throat and really sings in an eloquent, strikingly melodic fashion. These guys don’t leave much ground covered-up. If you’re at least mildly interested, 365 Step Blues is worth a shot. It’s an awkward listen, but it will win you over with a long train ride.
Five One, Inc.
