Mudville - Mudville EP

It’s kind of difficult to write up an extensive review of a four-track EP, so I’ll just try to run through what the band sounds like and whether or not it’s worth looking into. This EP is a prelude to an upcoming full album, set for release in the Fall with the production credits of Benjamin Rubin, who is also the bassist and electronics expert. Mudville sounds like a softened version of Portishead, which is to say that they lean towards being an electronica lounge act. Lead vocalist Marilyn Carino’s wailing singing isn’t quite as instantly attractive as Beth Gibbons, but it does sound promising. The surrounding music is gentle and delicate, though significantly less prominent, in both amplitude and vigor, than the vocals. When listened to with an attentive ear you can hear a lot of post-industrial synth layers in the background that seem to drown out completely when pitted against vocals, which makes me feel frustrated; casual listeners will most likely miss out on the full effect. Undoubtedly, the atmospheric nature of the music is intentional to the style of the band, though without something a tad more upfront they may get lost amongst the trip-hop scene. I’m interested in seeing whether or not Mudville can expand upon the somewhat unfulfilling sound, in my opinion, that they have for the upcoming album. I have no doubt that they can put out a good record. [www.mudvillemusic.com]