Review: Pelican

peli
Pelican
March into the Sea
(Hydra Head)

With two tracks lasting over 32 minutes, this CD single is more like an EP. The first track is the full 20-minute version of “March into the Sea”; the version on Pelican’s latest album lasts only 10 minutes. This Chicago band is four guys that play “instru-metal” – that is, with no singer. Expect an epic, dynamic sound that hits both crashing climaxes and mellow, emotive passages. This track somehow morphs into piano, acoustic guitar, and flute textures. The second track is a remix by Justin Broadrick of Godflesh and Jesu fame. The remix sounds just like a Jesu track, complete with majestic drones and ten-ton drums. Hydra Head can do no wrong at the moment.