Alex Somers - “Apologize”
SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 5
Pairs Well With…Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross, mum, Sigur Ros
If you found a way to translate a panoramic view of Iceland’s mountains and valleys into music, it would sound something like an Alex Somers song. Soundwaves of reversed electric guitar tones often form the backbone of his music while subtle vibrations, rather than epic swings, twist his post-rock foundation into pure, ambient beauty. It’s striking how consistent Somers’ atmospheric sound trends across his expansive catalog, most notably collaborating with partner Jonsi on Riceboy Sleeps, and recently soundtracking Shia LeBeouf’s Honey Boy. His dynamic, electric layering allows intricate percussion, often natural sounds instead of traditional rhythms, stand out as important pillars of his music instead of just aural accompaniment. It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out in a SXSW venue as a solo set, but expect a refreshing, engaging experience from the veteran American artist. (Kevin McStravick)