Third Transmission: Meet Me On Echo Echo Terrace is the third album from the Austin, Texas based Experimental Aircraft. Having been absent for quite some time now, the band has come back as strong as ever with this wonderful album. As far as spacey/shoegaze releases go so far this year, this has definitely found a place among the top of the early pile. In actuality I should use the word shoegaze somewhat loosely with them, as they are much more than your average distortion heavy “wall of sound” type of band. They manage to blend elements of indie-rock and hints of psychedelic influence within the distant sounding fuzz. Experimental Aircraft sound very much like a product of where they are from, with songs that stretch and reveal a hint of haunting loneliness that one can easily be consumed by living in such an area. It sets the mood perfectly. Adding to it all is one of my favorite aspects of the band, which are the gorgeous vocals from singer Rachel Staggs. Her soft drifting vocals complement the bands overall forlorn sound perfectly with her injecting that slight ounce of hope among it all. Also making an appearance, more here than on their previous albums, are the additional vocals from TJ O’Leary. Who often sounds a bit more fluctuant but adds nicely to the bands palette. This is definitely an album to check out for fans of hazy/spacey indie-rock. Good stuff all around.

Experimental Aircraft – Stellar [MP3]
Experimental Aircraft – So Simple [MP3]

If you’re interested in picking up Third Transmission: Meet Me on Echo Echo Terrace, then head on over to Graveface Records and order a copy. Definitely comes recommended. Enjoy!

Labels: indie-rock, psych-rock, shoegaze