EP Review: We Are the West- 'We Are the West II' EP (23/02/2013 – Self Released)

We Are the West are a two person, acoustic based band consisting of John Kibler and Brett Hool who were formed in 2011 and have been trying to create an honest and emotional sound ever since. The Los Angeles based duo have performed in some odd locations, including sheep farms, shipping containers abandoned convents and have made a name for themselves by hosting a concert series in the underground parking garage of an office building in Santa Monica the Saturday night before each full moon. This, the band’s second EP is the second instalment in a collection of recordings and was recorded in a barn in New York last summer. It’s currently available for $3 worth of donation, or more if you feel the music is worthy.

Beauty in simplicity: Artwork

It’s obvious from the very first chord that We Are the West are something very rare in the music industry- they’re unique and truly passionate about what they do. First track ‘The Hammer’ is full of atmospheric echoes, as well as a lovely blend of harmonies and gentle guitaring. The stunning vocals combined with fading voice effects form something very special and intimate, which almost makes the listener feel as if they are listening to the band play live, which is something truly unique to find on modern recordings.

Notably, We Are the West’s compositions feel incredibly personal- almost as if you are gaining exclusive insight into someone’s inner thoughts and feelings. And with the huge excess of modern music that lacks any sort of sentiment, this really is a breath of fresh air. The vocals and melody are simplistic yet innovative and very haunting. These are tracks that’d really be at home on a late night radio station helping its listeners to wind down after a long, hectic day of work.

‘JV Try-outs’ reflects how keen the duo are on using tranquil concepts of sound and space in their work and truly makes the listener wish there were more tracks to the EP, which is of course, a sure sign of a great recording. It’s got a fantastic demure vibe and is impeccably composed. Lyrically, it’s very poetic and serene in terms of atmosphere. But even the instrumental conclusion of the track teases emotion from the listener, particularly due to the charming string section.

As ‘JV Try-outs’ ebbs away into silence, it’s clear how special We Are the West are. Their music is full of heart and character and it seems all the pair of musicians need is more exposure to gain the appreciation they and their work deserve.

5/5