The following article was submitted by Kelsie Blazier:

Broad Channel – Bing and Ruth Broad Channel – Bing and Ruth

Experiemental/acoustic band, Bing and Ruth, is set to release their third LP, City Lake, on October 26th. Filled with melodic pieces and heavy piano compositions, it quickly becomes evident how each in the 11-piece ensemble works together to form Bing and Ruth’s aesthetic sound.

The clarinet, commonly known for its squeaky, ear-piercing quality, actually hums nicely along with the deep cello and bass, which harmonize well with the ever-prominent piano played by David Moore. Though the group consists of vocalists, their presence in the music seems absent until the track “City Lake/Tu Sei Uwe” comes to an end. “City Lake” starts out soft, much like the other songs on the album, but builds to a fiery wrath toward the end of its 15 minute duration.

Slamming symbols accompany the constant piano, but each note is being deliberately played with more passion as the song continues. The once relaxing tune begins to make your heart race as a cacophony of sounds lead to the songs finale. Some of the vocals become noticeable during the mash up at the end of the song, which adds to the raw passion that the band is finally unleashing at this point in the album.  The end of the song turns into a blur of wailing clarinets, long notes held by the vocalists, and the ever-present banging of symbols. And just like that, the song ends, leaving your ears sore from the silence, and begging for more.

The best part of the album is the fact that while it is entirely without lyrics, all the songs are easily differentiated. Nothing sounds too repetitive, which makes the album that much more enjoyable. Though it’s not entirely upbeat, City Lake has an overall calming effect, making it good for background throughout the day.