I suppose this Nevada trio qualifies as a "shoegaze" band, at least in the modern sense. But there's too much going on for me to really buy into that description.

Blunderbusst Monarch of the Mountain EP (Slow Start)

The wall of fuzz comes and goes, and the dynamic range is impressive. Indeed, Blunderbusst is just as comfortable with churning ragers as it is with melodic acoustic baubles. In that way, I guess this falls more into that awful "modern alternative" catchall territory.

But that's not descriptive in any sense, and it doesn't capture the band's exceptional talent for gorgeous melodies. Even when the music is completely fuzzed out, the beauty shines through. These are tightly-crafted pieces, no matter how carelessly it sounds like they're being played.

And in truth, everything is handled with care. Blunderbusst just doesn't feel like conforming to your idea of a traditional sound. Call them whatever you want. Just don't forget to unpack your sense of wonder.

Jon Worley