With a distinct New York sound reminiscent of the legendary Television, The Velvet Underground (and/or solo Lou Reed) and temporary NYC transplant Jonathan Richman, it may surprise you to learn that Richard Tripps is a born-and-raised Californian.
The title track and first single from his forthcoming EP, “Stone Eating Animals” is imbued with the same levels of quirkiness as another classic tune about a stone-eating beings – “Tale Of The Giant Stone Eater” – from 1970s cult favourites The Sensational Alex Harvey Band. Recorded by Tripps on his 4-track tape recorder in his tent cabin down by the river in Big Sur, the vibe here is organic and loose. There are more modern influences at play here too; we’re reminded of acts like Kurt Vile, Ty Segall and Thee Oh Sees. This is probably due, in part, to how charming and lo-fi the song feels, as well as its ramshackle warts-and-all nature.
At just over two minutes in length, it doesn’t hang about and it doesn’t outstay its welcome. It also doesn’t deviate much from its tried-and-tested breezy, slightly sleazy-feeling formula: Apart from an occasional background wig-out, it relies heavily on the distinct combination of laconic vocal, throbbing bass, choppy guitar and basic drums. This is an unpolished, unabashed slice of indie rock-‘n-roll. Yes, it’s meat and potatoes stuff, but it’s really quite delicious.
Take a listen to “Stone Eating Animals” below:
Written by Kinda Grizzly
