Big and dreamy, and definitely up to the challenge of filling an airplane hanger with monolithic, delay sobbing guitar melodies, Valdosta Georgia’s Major Barger delivers the goods on their Fleur De Lis EP.  

 

I am struck immediately by the seemingly contradictory realization that this band can do “enormous” and “gentle” at the same time.  Their sound is a slow burning one- insistent melodies layered thoughtfully with delay, and liberal doses of static, which incredibly, never seems to overwhelm the song.  Post Rock is implied, with moments that recall the first Tortoise record, or Mogwai, but there is clearly a more melodic intent here and a refreshing spacey-ness that is only buoyed by the production.  This EP often sounds like you are floating high above it, hearing it loud and clear from far below, but digging more on it’s reverberation off the clouds surrounding you.  

 

Yeah, and it’s real good with pot, too.  

 

"Major Barger = 3 friends who, post-graduation, ended up working on 3 different floors of a University library. Andy had a handful of half-finished songs and a roomful of recording gear. Mike had spent his early years in the hardcore scene, but had quieted down considerably. Chris had an odd fascination with the delicate art of delay pedals. To counter the boredom and repetitiveness of their work lives they got together and layered sounds. This is what they made; this is the fleur-de-lis EP."

 

Or so the band tells it.  This EP, which is already floating about and available from the bands own myspace, makes a fine addition to our podcast series.  

 

1. If I Had the Key, I’d Be A Locksmith

2. Know Drone

3. Protect Me and I’ll Protect You

4. Sorry For The Delay

5. Clouds Blackouts (Final Mix)

6. Self Will Run Riot

 

 

 

We thank Major Barger for allowing it’s inclusion.