Ampledeed - BYOB. 2016 USA-California

BYOB is the second effort from Ampledeed of Los Angeles. The Canterbury edges are beginning to get rubbed out, though there's still plenty of excellent instrumental progressive rock to be had, especially on the bookends of the recording. But creeping in the middle is that annoying whiny indie psych that just doesn't resonate with me, and one can only hope it goes away quickly. I think they're trying to do more of an Art Bears thing, and it comes out more like Of Montreal. As Steve of Wayside says about a potential title for the 3rd album: "C is for Canterbury". That would be my vote too. In any case, still a fine effort overall, but they're targeting a different audience I fear.

Ownership: CD: 2016 private. Digifile sleeve. 

3/18/16 (new entry); 11/15/23 (removed)

Ampledeed - A is for Ampledeed. 2013 USA-California

Ampledeed is a new group from the Los Angeles area, who clearly have an affinity for the classic early 70s Canterbury scene - unwittingly it may appear. The genre itself has always been a favorite of the UTR, due to its highly appealing combination of melody and complexity. Other characteristics include fuzzy psychedelic tones and a jazzy rhythmic base. And the well studied Ampledeed succeed on all 4 accounts. Of course, much of the "analog" keyboard tones are derived from samples, but that's a small thing. It's the sound itself that counts, right? What's interesting to me is that the band themselves do not indicate that they know Caravan, Soft Machine, National Health, but rather the usual suspects of Pink Floyd, Yes, and King Crimson. So perhaps they came to the same conclusion of Dave Stewart and company, rather than as a direct influence. Even better as far as I'm concerned. I found myself, predictably I realize, enjoying the instrumental work as some of the vocal oriented songs can drag a bit. Really curious where the band goes from here.

Ownership: CD: 2013 private

11/30/13 (new entry)