Places And Numbers

Notes From The Dead Zone EP

Bobby Darling is best known for his role as guitarist/vocalist in the recently reactivated Seattle prog-emo band Gatsbys American Dream, as well the Gatsbys splinter group Search/Rescue. With Places And Numbers, Darling joins producer friend Casey Bates (Portugal. The Man, Chiodos) for four songs of atmospheric pop. The focus is on melody and instrumentation, but also minimalism. In the past, the duo have recorded material on their computers while traveling, and these songs do, at times, feel pieced together. Piano and organ play a large part on the EP, including its highlight, “Tectonic,” with its bombastic chorus and driving energy. The other three, unfortunately, never reach the same climax, plodding along in a comfortable state that doesn’t overly challenge the listener. The title track has a great melody line, but doesn’t stand out like its predecessor.

Equal Vision http://www.equalvision.com

“Tectonic”