Morningbell: Through the Belly…

By: Scott Caffrey

I wish to hell I was a drummer. Morningbell is looking for a new one and this is a band I’d like to get with. Not only do they make solid psych-pop in the vein of the Flaming Shins of Montreal, they’ve figured out a unique way to combat music piracy: the world’s first “Choose Your Own Adventure Album.” Without the backstory liner notes for their new epoch, Through the Belly of the Sea (Orange Records), the listener just wouldn’t get the whole experience. It’s right genius in its simplicity.

Every adventure starts with Chapter 1: “The Speed of God,” a ‘ludey, modern sea shanty that could be “The Son of Sloop John B.” Going directly to Chapter 7: “Journey to the Bottom (Interlude),” the song sounds as it reads – a quick, blip-and-drip ode to the ocean’s gargantuan beauty. From there, it’s up to you.

My first adventure ended when I was doltish enough to try and fight a sea monster with 40,000 eyes. Next trip out, though, I fled and found Utopia. How great is that? Short chapters of loose story points help you bounce from track-to-track, all while fresh, vibey sounds pour forth. Pretty cool.

The stories aren’t limitless, and they missed a few obvious opportunities for noise (I’d sure like to hear that JOLT!!! during the attack). But, these things just take away from their Choose Your Own Adventure concept. If the music wasn’t so damn good, the gimmick would fall flat. It’s a mighty testament to their songcraft that the album also plays nicely from start to finish.

Editor’s Note: Morningbell just announced Chris Hillman (formerly of Alphabet City) as their sixth drummer. Long may he reign…

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