Album Review: Untied States - Instant Everything, Constant Nothing

Atlanta seems to be quickly becoming a musical focal point of American indie rock. Untied States are one of Atlanta's established bands with 'Instant Everything, Constant Nothing' being their latest release on Distile Records.

Over the course of 45 minutes, the 4-piece treat us to a blend of psychedelica and garage rock. Tracks like 'Not Fences, Mere Masks' and 'Unsilvered Mirrors' swing back and forth between a high tempo, raw guitar band and one that is laid back and subtly calm.

Elsewhere 'Grey Tangerines' hints at the bands experimental side, with distorted vocals and erratic guitars. Add to this a slight hint of grunge and you are left with a confused yet welcomed sound, as the band's peculiar approach is appreciated.

Another key factor of this record, is it ability to seamlessly flow from one track to the next. For example 'These Dead Birds' sweetly inter wines into 'Take Time for Always'; a track with a sporadic structure and tone.

Whereas 'Bye Bye Bi-Polar' and 'Wrestling With Entropy in the Rehabbed Factory' are more simpler and shows the band's musicianship off well, as the vocals are minimum and distant. 'Holding Up Walls' sees the bands stripping off its various layers and showing its through and through indie rock side.

On the whole 'Instant Everything, Constant Nothing' is an interesting record, as the bands structure goes against predictability and instead they decide to produce a record, that is well thought out and structured. However at times you do feel the record is going nowhere and some ideas are reported, though they are good. The bands progressive approach is an interesting twist but it lacks longevity.

3/5

'Instant Everything, Constant Nothing' by Untied States is availble now on Distile Records

Sean Reid