Balms
Mirror
Independent
Reuniting 10 years after high school, Balms members Jared Padovani, Michael Ascunsion and John Kolesnikow started in a basement in San Francisco and have been cranking out music ever since. While their typical sound airs on the side of dreamy alternative, their debut LP MirrorΒ allows listeners to see a new, darker side of the band.
Dipping their toes into more of the β90s grunge sound, Balms uses MirrorΒ to introduce a much more haunting style of music. The wall of guitar support is heavier and the lyrics more introspective than listeners might expect. βDark Riderβ starts with an aggressive, upbeat instrumental track before introducing melancholy and dreamy vocals. βSetting Sunβ wraps up the LP with a slow build-up that leads to an instrumental break so emotionally charged, you can almost feel the heaviness.
If youβre seeking a collection of tracks to help you self-reflectβa cathartic release, if you willβMirror will provide in abundance.
ArtistΒ Links
SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: BALMS – MIRROR
Audra Hopkins