Pittsburgh band Vireo has been quite selective with its musical output. catching minnows (sic) is only their 3rd single in the last 3 years. Will it be as unique and enjoyable as their previous songs?
Spoiler alert: YES!
The song is about the struggle to stay positive and is a reminder to look to loved ones for help. It was written after spending the day hanging by the river in the sun – and it shows!
There’s an authentic tactile sound and a feeling of being close to the performers. It’s like we are being beckoned over to their campfire and are welcome to join in.
In the first half, I loved the way the last note of phrases on the violin suddenly slid up at the end – it’s an inventive touch and gave the song a really unique sound.
Hands clap, people chant, guitars squeak, and flutes flute. Like some ancient ritual celebration, at times it feels like a whole crowd of people is singing along.
Layers build as the song evolves and develops around the central theme. New ideas surface right up to the end. It’s all over in under 3 minutes, but feels complex and full of hidden treasures.
An inventive song with an old soul, for one final surprise, it all ends in an abrupt, sudden full stop.
catching minnows is out now.
Written by Grubby
