Minus The Bear have a new album out!
The short story of MTB is that the core members were all in Hardcore/Jazz bands prior to forming circa 2000/01. Despite that, they came together and made a kick ass Indie Pop/Rock band. That's just my lazy interpretation though, they're sometimes labeled Prog & Math Rock, but it doesn't really matter what people call them until you check out the music.
The new album is pretty good. It's a classic 3rd album although; in the sense that it merely builds upon the foundations already in place. However, you have to bear in mind those foundations were amazing. The songs seem a little more experimental on Planet of Ice (like i said, classic 3rd album). 'Lotus', for example breaks down into a quiet ambience before a Prog guitar section closes the song (and album). 'When We Escape' is notably ballad-like, but in the best way 'ballad' can be implied! MTBs instantly recognisable technical ability still remains the focal point which is something i love about this band, especially when they can incorporate it into hooky pop songs. Dave Knudson is one under-rated guitarist. 'Knights' is the 1st single and is very representative of the bands style, certainly of what they've done up until now, sounding like something off Menos el Oso. The video for the track is just as good as the song is.
Didn't really mean to wander into the realms of reviewing, just wanted to share how good this band are. Enjoy!
