The Fox and the Bird
OK Goodnight
From their webpage, "OK GOODNIGHT challenges Modern Progressive Rock/Metal by taking inspiration from a wide array of genres. Based out of Boston, MA, the band formed when they were all studying at Berklee College of Music. "The Fox and the Bird" is a concept album about animals and myths telling the tale of a drought-stricken land and two friends' perilous quest to bring back the rain. As the story unfolds, the music moves from acoustic softness to electric heaviness, all the while depicting a bustling wilderness with vibrant sound design." The album has 13 songs.
"The Drought" is the first. Ominous tones reflect the title of the song at first. Casey's impassioned vocals follow, with thick bass guitar notes. At times, the music is somewhat soothing, but a tension hangs in the air. The title track is warm and inviting, like a blanket on a cold winter day. Casey's vocals are smooth and there is a jovial edge to this song. It has a care-free feeling. "The Raccoon (and the Myth)" is a more delicate offering, with acoustic guitars and calm, reassuring vocals. When the fox and bird meet, they can see in each other's eyes what they need to do to save their homeland.
"The Journey" is a shorter instrumental track that features piano and some darker guitar parts. Obviously, the trip will be perilous, decided by heavier tones. But there is also a tone of hope here. "The Snake" serves as a symbol of warning to the travelers, and the music is shady and brooding. "Sink into the suffering, carcasses infected with ripened dunes of emptiness, endless soulless nothingness." "The Nightmare" is just that...a mysterious instrumental where the band can display some musical prowess. Let's talk for just a moment about Augusto's fantastic drumming...listen closely. "The Falcon" is a pacifying ray of hope. The mood changes from haste to calm and the melodies flow like a swollen river. The band also cuts loose a bit and leaves the listener with no doubts as to their prowess. I love this song.
"The Dream" is a short instrumental, and perhaps marks an early turning point on the album. As they saying goes, "if you can dream it, you can do it." "The Bear" often represents strength and courage, and that is what the weary travelers will need to complete their quest. Harsh vocals are coupled with cleans, to mark the feeling. "The Crocodile" represents a false hope or a wolf in sheep's clothing if you will. He teases "might you get a little bit closer to me...I promise, these scars are deceiving, I can help you, you see." Heavy bass notes reflect the subject. "The Bird" represents happiness, love, and grace, and those are the tones in this song. The melody is so charming here it will give you pause to consider more the good things you have in your life.
"The Mountain" is in many ways the final challenge for the travelers. The music is fast, complex, and ever moving. If you want a taste of what the band can do, play this song. Again, we hear harsh vocals to mark the mood and the challenge. "The Rain" closes the album, and the tale. It's wonderfully alluring, and I feel a sense of calm come over me. Everything will be OK. Who doesn't love a Progressive concept album? Like any good story, the subject matter fits in so well with the music. You can visualize it, and the band makes it come to life in front of your eyes. That is the mark of accomplished musicians...when you can feel the music.
9 / 10
Almost Perfect
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"The Fox and the Bird" Track-listing:
1. The Drought
2. The Fox and the Bird
3. The Raccoon (and the Myth)
4. The Journey
5. The Snake
6. The Nightmare
7. The Falcon
8. The Dream
9. The Bear
10. The Crocodile
11. The Bird
12. The Mountain
13. The Rain
OK Goodnight Lineup:
Casey Lee Williams - Lyrics, Lead Vocals, SFX
Martin Gonzalez - Guitar, Mandolin
Martín de Lima - Keyboards, Guitars, Mandolin, Orchestrations, Backing Vocals
Augusto Bussio - Drums, SFX, Backing Vocals
Peter de Reyna - Bass
Elizabeth Hull - Guest Vocals
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