Post-rock might be the most nebulous genre in the Western rock canon. Critics and fans alike have found it nearly impossible to create any clear definition. Some people like the ambient and twinkly stuff, like a combination of jam bands and a rapturous soundtrack for a television show or movie. Others prefer more aggressive sounds, especially when it pulls from post-punk, metal, math rock, and prog. Ultimately, post-rock could almost be anything you want it to be, but it must be instrumental and vocal-less rock at its core. And that seems to be its biggest strength and its Achilles heel.
Just don’t tell that to Waldo’s Gift.
This tremendously talented trio from Bristol, UK delivers the absolute goods on its newest full-length album, Malcolm’s Law. Released on the Severn Songs label, these nine scorching tracks deliver the finest quality instrumental post-rock, complete with ebullient energy and jazzy fills. We’re talking about metalcore sweep picking, jazz fusion drumming, and rippling bass. And even with the meticulous proggy time signature shifting, the group’s groove sits in the deepest possible pocket.
Imagine a frenetic blend of Tortoise, Minus the Bear, Jeff Parker, Russian Circles, and Khruangbin. The guitars vibrate with skillful shredding that should put a smile on anyone’s face. The resonant melodic core embraces the power of riffage to deliver voices, hooks, and storytelling. Courtesy of the passionate rhythm section, listeners enjoy a superb sense of timing, style, and taste. The bass provides a robust counterpoint to the lead guitar, while the magnetic drumming offers up sublime syncopation that never feels showy.
Each track was recorded live with no overdubs. Every part comes through completely clear in the mix, discernable yet inseparable. Such a deep interplay and connectivity relies on each member of the trio being able to work off the energy and ideas of the other two. The album flow from track-to-track allows you to appreciate the technical precision even as you enjoy a transcendent listening experience. The result is a profound example of impeccable performance acumen and artistic trust.
Malcolm’s Law showcases a level of heart and relatability that you don’t often hear in post-rock.
The folks in Waldo’s Gift possess a fundamental joy for music that leaps out of the speakers and into your ears. By combining soulful vibes and meticulous care, the group avoided the stereotypical trappings of the genre with remarkable ease. Check out “Candifloss,” “Café Jim,” and the title track if you don’t believe me. They could have channeled their incredible skills into making dense layers of immaculate yet impenetrable arrangements. Instead, they choose to share their love of making music without backing down from their affection for details and craft.