Denude A Murmuration of Capitalist Bees LP
DENUDE’s debut LP, A Murmuration of Capitalist Bees, delivers eight tracks of mathy post-rock recorded live in the studio with “very few overdubs.” The three-piece, with members from PIGLET, MURDER IN THE RED BARN, FUIGUIRNET, and CREDENTIALS, clearly knows their instruments—the rhythm section drives with bombast and James David’s semi-sung vocals serve the material well. However, the first half of the album feels a bit directionless, leaving me wondering, “Where is this going?” By the second half, the tracks pick up slightly and “Phalanx” is a high point, but overall, the band’s restrained style left me craving more intensity. Fans of bands like SLINT and FARAQUET might appreciate the album’s subtle approach, but it may not fully satisfy those seeking more aggression. The vinyl is limited to 74 copies on clear root beer plastic with black and gold swirls, and 200 copies on black vinyl.