Brooklyn-based collective The Epoch have quietly been releasing stunning tunes for several years, including records by Told Slant, Small Wonder, Eskimeaux, Florist, Sharpless, and Bellows. Together, they have built up a dedicated community of fans and friends near and far, who eagerly gobble up every new record. This time, the album in question is the long-awaited sophomore Bellows record, Blue Breath. The main project of founding Epoch member Oliver Kalb, Bellows follows up their debut, As If To Say I Hate Daylight, with a powerful punch of lush instrumentation layered over Kalb’s harmonies. In addition to the two singles that have already come out (“For Rock Dove” and “Funny Things”), we would like to highlight another standout. “Change By Night” finds the members of Bellows’ live incarnation (Kalb, Gabby Smith, Felix Walworth, and Henry crawford) harmonizing with a gradual crescendo marked by Smith’s gorgeous soprano whispers.
Bellows is a glimpse of hope in the darkest time, their sound is enormous and embracing, the type of music that can only be created through tight relationships, and makes for an inspirational—if not introspective—listen.
Bellows/Eskimeaux tour dates
August
29 Brooklyn, NY @ Shea Stadium w/ The Ugly Club, Stargazy, Terrible Terrible
30 Purchase, NY @ The Stood w/ The Hotelier
31 Washington, D.C. @ The Black Cat w/ Spoonboy
September
01 Baltimore, MD @ The Crown w/ Flashlight O, Soft Cat, Bliss
02 Pittsburgh, PA @ The New House w/ Brightside, Fun Home, Yes Yes A Thousand Times Yes
03 Rochester, NY @ Chris Coons’ House (msg for address)
04 Albany, NY @ The Low Beat w/ Free Cake for Every Creature, Hand Habits
05 Bard College, NY w/ Jawbreaker Reunion
06 Troy, NY @ Ground Zero (at RPI) w/ Pinegrove
07 New Brunswick, NJ @ Circuit City w/ Long Beard, Fraternal Twin
