Minus the Bear October 7, 2006

Though the song titles may lead one to believe that they're a novelty act, Minus the Bear provides polished, shrewdly arranged songs. Finger-tapped guitar riffs mixed with catchy melodies and unexpected time changes keep listeners interested and entertained. Minus the Bear has built a loyal fan base through extensive touring and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. The Velvet Teen is a rock trio from the northern Bay Area whose songs range from the beautiful to the bittersweet, with soaring countertenor melodies, tastefully delicate harmonies and a unique sound not to be missed. Russian Circles is a three piece instrumental band from Chicago. It would be tough to imagine that a band would be able to develop its own unique presence and innovation with such solid groundwork in the instrumental genre. However, Russian Circles does bring something new to the table. Their songs feel incredibly narrative and linear. There is no angular flash or mathematical flair. These songs stream through themes and by no means build on just one repeating idea. They are gargantuan in scope. They flow seamlessly from beautiful soft ambience to truly defined melody to massively thick heaviness with a gradual progression that never leaves you lost. Variety is no gimmick and they are a band that does not just vacillate within an achieved sonic identity.