Based out of Portland, Rare Monk has grown from playing gigs in the college scene to touring the UK and the West Coast. Upon the first listen of the EP, it’s difficult not to compare Rare Monk to the Death Cab for Cutie. Whether you are laying around in your room or you need some music to cruise around town to, this Rare Monk EP satisfies.
Although the first song fails to bring much new to the table, the following three songs make up for it. Vocalist Dorian Aites plays off of the cosmic rock melodies to bring a soulful and hollow vocal presence. Each time he trails off it seems rather eerie, but in the best way possible. One of the best aspects of Rare Monk is the background of orchestral instrumentation, which can be easy to miss. Once you find it, a visceral touch is given to the EP.
Recommended If You Like: Death Cab for Cutie, The Helio Sequence
Recommended Tracks: 2, 3, 4
Do Not Play: None
Written by Gabby Buckner on 11/18/15