CD Review: School of Seven Bells, Alpinisms (Ghostly International)

Nov 25, 2008 5:01 PM

Aiming high
Following the lead of their album title—the mountain climbing philosophy of alpinists—has made for an occasionally risky set covering a wide range of emotions. Band mastermind Benjamin Curtis (formerly of Secret Machines) employs polyrhythms and dark/light synth work to craft a wavering backdrop for the Deheza twins' evenly spaced vocal harmonies, resulting in a mostly lo-fi set that sometimes takes a few tentative steps across the danceable edge. Curtis' trademark heavy-effects psychedelic guitar work also stands out, especially on "Face to Face on High Places"—a gliding, glossy chunk of pop.—Kristi Kates [3.5 out of 5 stars]

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