Beginning with a gentle synth sound, the live-to-tape performance of “The Labyrinth” lulls you into a false sense of security from the outset. You think you know where you stand. You assume where things are heading. And then it shifts: The synth pads are joined by heavily distorted bass courtesy of Peter Broadley and pounding, skittish drums (which it sounds like drummer David Pake is trying to put a hole through, by the way).
The band’s Bandcamp describes them as “a psychedelic artrock band that paints with sound”, and we would absolutely agree. The Labyrinth sprawls and spirals as it continues, with vocalist Tara Rice sounding like a hybrid of singers like PJ Harvey, Anna Calvi, Siouxsie Sioux, and Anette Olzon, and almost coming across – at times – like a female Robert Plant. Tara and Sködt McNalty share guitar duties and work wonderfully together, weaving a tapestry of sound that envelopes the listener in noise, tone, and texture.
The third of five songs recorded live by PROJEKT at The Sugar Shack in London, Ontario for Incorrect Thoughts (who specialise in capturing amazing live studio sessions from Ontario and across the world), this impressive recording captures the magic of the band. It showcases their individual strengths as well as the undeniable harmony of them working together as one.
Take a listen to the live version of “The Labyrinth” below:
Written by Kinda Grizzly
