MOGWAI

Mr. Beast

2006-03-08

The Scottish five-piece Mogwai has been around since 1995, and presents Mr. Beast as their fifth studio release. The band returns to their Rock-inspired roots after veering in a softer direction with their last two releases. The album is mostly dark and smooth rock instrumental ballads pumped by swelling guitars, melancholic piano, and resonating bass and drums. For the most part the songs start softly and swell, then quiet down, and finally finish with a flourish of musical activity. Tracks of note rang from the rock infused #1 “Auto Rock”; while #3 “Acid Food” and #4 “Travel Is Dangerous” feature quiet and driving vocals. – Ryan Terpstra