Wooden Shjips is a psychedelic band with a minimalist style for rock 'n' roll. This slightly old-fashioned group came together in 2006 to create music that would transcend time. Back to Land is only the group’s second album recorded outside of their base in San Francisco.
Imagine driving down a barren dirt road for what seems like forever. This is what Back to Land sounds like. The tracks that Wooden Shjips have created leave something to be desired. The way the words are whispered makes it possible to get an idea of what is being said, but leaves a great deal to imagination.
Something to realize about Wooden Shjips is their sound is repetitive and heavy. Words get lost as the songs unfold, and drowning in the chords seems like an all-too-possible reality. With such sturdy repetition, it is easy to get lost in the labyrinth that is Wooden Shjips’ music.
The opening track for this album, “Back to Land,” has a shadowy groove to it. The vocals seem to echo in the background as the catchy beat repeats itself with occasional, but subtle, harmony changes. This song perfectly introduces what is to come with the rest of the album.
Another song worth listening to is “In the Roses.” This track is more upbeat and gives a greater variety to the listener. It's one worth dancing to and will probably get one to tap their feet.
Back to Land is quite mundane and is by no means a showstopper. Sure, it’s a listenable album, there’s nothing to provoke a strong urge to turn it off, but nothing really causes an urge to keep it on either. The songs are good but repetitive. If you don’t listen to this album you won’t be missing much, but it can’t hurt to give it a shot either. “Blah” is one of the best ways to describe Back to Land.
Rating: C+
