“A killer record to check out from start to finish – these guys are building themselves a bulletproof legacy.” — Sleeping Bag Studios
With “Drown the Wind,” West of House delivers a bold and dynamic follow-up to their debut album, “Crescendo of Silence.” This sophomore effort expands on their signature sound, blending alternative rock with indie sensibilities in a way that feels both fresh and familiar. The album has been praised for its depth and artistic confidence, with critics noting its mix of “ethereal haze,” “pop-rock groove,” and moments of “angst and urgency” that give it an undeniable energy.
The record moves effortlessly between introspective moments and driving, anthemic soundscapes. One moment, the music washes over the listener with “a hazy, psychedelic cloud of warmth and charm,” and the next, it surges forward with “low-slung electro-grooves” and “hard-grooving, snarling rock” energy. Fans of intricate melodies and thought-provoking lyrics will find plenty to appreciate as the band explores themes of connection, resilience, and the unpredictability of life.
Rather than simply repeating past successes, West of House embraces experimentation while staying true to their core sound. The album carries an undeniable confidence, leading some to call it a “surprise record” that further cements the bands place in the indie rock scene.
Drown the Wind Tracklist:
01 | Nothing is But What is Not
02 | Entwined
03 | ‘Merican
04 | Sunshine Girl
05 | Beautiful Distraction
06 | Fall Down
07 | Cattywampus
08 | The Oracle (Speak to Me)
09 | The First Time
10 | Where to Begin
11 | Apropos
Stream & Purchase:
Liner Notes:
Released September 3, 2021
Vocals / Guitars / Keys / Programming: Erick Bieger
Guitars: Kevin Huynh
Bass: Lance Bletscher
Drums: Tommy Maras
Additional Guitars: Dave Roberts & Bobby Phillipps
Additional Backing Vocals: Bobby Phillipps
Contributing Musicians:
“Nothing is But What is Not”
Spoken Vocal: McKenna Bieger
“Beautiful Distraction”
Cello: Steven Schumann
Trumpet, French Horn, & Trombone: Will Allen
Trombone & Flugelhorn: James Hodson
“Fall Down”
Hammered Dulcimer: Val Cortoni
Irish Tin Whistle: Jamie Jordan
“Where to Begin”
Cello: Bogdan Jovanovic
Violin: Katarina Pinter
Cover Art: Dev O’Reilly
Produced by Erick Bieger
Recorded by West of House
Mixing & Mastering by Bobby Phillipps
Dedicated to the memory of Brian Catalano (1971 – 2020)
