Instrumental band Ten Past Seven have been a take them or leave them band whenever I’ve encountered them live. On disc they are a different beast: complex song structures with strong metal, jazz and post punk influences make for a fascinating and fun listen.
Out on a Limb
Ten Past Seven play in a similar way to the Dillinger Escape Plan; they switch between styles and timings at the drop of a hat, however the music isn’t always as headwrecking. Ten Past Seven are far less aggressive (although still heavy) and have a better sense of humor. The three lads are highly proficient players and play off each other naturally. The transitions between the different parts of the songs are slick and there is little sign of the changes being forced, a fault with many bands with complex song structures. With no regard for traditional song structures the track listing seems like a throwaway gesture. Without looking at the CD player’s display, it’s impossible to tell where one piece ends and the next one begins.
Shut up Your Face ticks along nicely; with so much change there is no point where the music becomes stagnant. When the band clicks the music is untouchable. “Back in Business” is one of the most exciting parts of the album. The riffing is great and the band seems to really be in tune with each other. Ten Past Seven hit this level of white hot brilliance a few more times, songs like “Egg Language” and “Pistachio” being prime examples. Still, there are a couple of patchy places to the disc such as “No Bother” which for a lot of the song is quite difficult to enjoy as the playing is a little clunky. Ten Past Seven’s performance doesn’t seem as instinctual here. However, with the frequent switches in style, it is not long before they return to steady ground.
Next time I see Ten Past Seven I’ll be sure to pay more attention as Shut up Your Face has given me the opportunity to sit down and enjoy the music which is far more intimidating in a live setting. As a debut album, it is a strong start and I hope they continue to entertain me for a long time.
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