Review Summary: Stripped down, yet instrumentally spectacular. All math, no bullshit.
It's nice to be able to appreciate something for its complexity without feeling compelled to think too hard about it. Much of math-rock's appeal can be attributed to this idea. You could casually marvel at the off-kilter time signatures, blistering fretwork and almost-impossible drumming without bothering to explore the deeper aspects. Sure, there are plenty of things at play, but let's be honest: most people don't really care to inconvenience themselves with the specifics - I'd argue that math-rock is like the 'I F
ucking Love Science' of music. To be clear, this is directed specifically towards the bona fide, unadulterated stuff a la Don Caballero - no singer, no electronics, nada. As such, it can be exceedingly difficult to sell someone on it. It even feels silly just to try and define it: rock music with weird time signatures. It seems like an unnecessary categorization, but it's fitting. There is something admirable about a band that is able to entrance a listener with their rhythmic prowess.
Herein lies a problem. A lot of math-rock bands are so dead set on their bizarre time signatures that the end result feels too calculated (hehe... he). Many bands are relentlessly wanky and fail to demonstrate any sort of visionary songwriting. Floral, a twinkly instrumental act from California, tread dangerously close to this territory but manage to skirt the borders gleefully. Despite being absurdly technical, there is something carefree in their delivery. In terms of sheer musicianship, Floral's eponymous EP is a shining star all would be math-rockers should follow dutifully, as every member is impeccable. "Aquarius Theater" bursts out the gate like an eight-legged horse - what a visual - and Floral waste no time administering a 'show of force'. The remainder of the EP follows suit, and is consistently tight though varying in ferocity. A couple tracks are more peaceful (the latter portion of "Balancing Act" especially) while others are more attention grabbing ("Climbing a Wall"). In fact, "Climbing a Wall" could be one of the most undeniably impressive math ditties of the year.
You might have noticed the multitude of vague descriptors thus far. It ties in with how... well...
vague this music is. If I were to bust out the ol' Oxford dictionary, I would explain how vagueness suggests unclear communication. This is Floral to a T. Like the garishly colourful artwork might have suggested, it is often unclear what Floral is trying to
say with their music. There are occasional moments where Floral manage to establish a visible mood, but these are rare. Nonetheless, their first effort is a strong display of musicianship. If Floral eventually hone their songwriting skills, they will undoubtedly become a tour de force. In the meantime, this EP shows Floral are capable of wooing many a' listener with their rhythmic finesse. Yes, you could easily become enthralled and not be entirely certain why. I'd suggest not to look too deeply into this. Sometimes it's best not to sweat the small stuff.
