Thirteen new tracks forge an exquisitely weathered, rain infused ethereal atmosphere on this 2007 release from Portland, Oregon's Submarine Fleet.
Submarine Fleet was launched in 2001 by multi-instrumentalist Ashkelon Sain (formerly of Trance to the Sun). From ambient soundscape beginnings, Sain has slowly added members to the Fleet, culminating here in a full fledged "shoegazer-esque" band featuring the soaring vocals of Mark James Linder (formerly of Blade Fetish) as well as the intuitive bass guitar talents of newcomer Dhanan Zakheim. Drums played by Daniel Canty lend a highly organic feel to the mix.
The hour-long A Very Strange Sight in the Distance is filled with engaging songs of distinctive mood and character. Sain's trademark reverb drenched guitars are complimented here by darkly poetic lyrics delivered in Linder's rich baritone vocal range. The rhythm section keeps things moving along with flair and consistency. The album is further interspersed with ambient musical "greenways" which add substance to the track sequencing.
The organic flow and consistent production values of A Very Strange Sight in the Distance make it an ideal selection for late night listening or traveling. It's an album that warrants repeat listenings. The collectibility of the release is enhanced as well by a limited edition Digi-Pak cover design and a CD-extra video track.