The Post-Desert Rock supergroup Yawning Balch is not only offering quality music, but is also particularly prolific, releasing the third chapter in their discography after a short time. Entitled “Volume Three,” it was released on February 21, 2025 via Heavy Psych Sounds and contains two long epic tracks, one 14 and the other over 20 minutes long. “The Taos Hum” immediately immerses us in the sound of the band, skilful in developing the central theme of the track through long instrumental textures with all the elements in evidence. Weaves and layers of guitar in both melodies and solo cues, a solid rhythm section, characterised by elaborate drumming and deep, technical basslines that give body to the piece. The sound moves on a Psychedelic Desert Rock, with an interesting dose of Post-Rock that pleasantly contaminates the style. An enveloping track, which leads the listener to explore the different facets of the band, keeping the intensity very high, with more acidic passages in the second half. After the lysergic opening epic, the second and last track of the album, “Winter Widow,” opens with ethereal guitar arpeggios and an extended intro. The track is developed with a constant crescendo, between layers of guitar and a more atmospheric sound than the previous one. The Post-Rock influences are more pronounced here, giving different solutions to the band, which departs from the classic sound to propose an original piece, which impressed me very positively. Very interesting are the modulations and the skilful use of effects, as well as the pleasant, sometimes dreamy atmospheres created by the band, which guide us through this Psychedelic journey of over 14 minutes. An album that confirms the technical skills both in composition and execution of these artists, true pioneers of the Desert Rock genre. Always adept at renewing their sound, exploring and incorporating fresh and modern elements, in this work too they offer an innovative and original sound. An excellent journey between Desert and Post-Rock with a marked dose of Psychedelia, pressing play and listening for almost 35 minutes to this excellent work by the band is definitely the best advice I can give you.
Tracklist
01. The Taos Hum (20:26)
02. Winter Widow (14:02)
Lineup
Gary Arce / Guitar
Bob Balch / Guitar
Billy Cordell / Bass
Bill Stinson / Drums
