Since their first release as Fox Grin in 2012, Thomas Chapman and David Bean have developed a knack for layering lush sounds over simple harmonies. With “Ocean Nocturne,” they drift further way from organic indie rock into an atmosphere of warm, effortless dream pop.
This isn’t a drastic step for the band. In fact, it is as much a change in production as it is in songwriting or structure with Fox Grin replacing the experimental flourishes of previous releases with glittering synth hooks and endless waves of reverb.
Chapman, Bean, and studio drummer Neil Kapoor demonstrate their skill by not overplaying, thereby letting the sunny simplicity of the song flow until it fades into oblivion. Though the emotional peaks and valleys of the song are microscopic, these tiny dynamic changes lend the track a natural quality, like a hand-drawn line lazily traced through the soundscape.
Though simple songs may seem like a waste of such obvious talent, “Ocean Nocturne” is Fox Grin at their most refined, stripping away excess in favor of a sun-drenched cocktail of haziness and clarity. Listen below.
Fox Grin will perform this Saturday, November 28 at 529 in support of exwhy and Slow Parade. Alex Lotito opens the show. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $5.
More Info
Bandcamp: foxgrin.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @foxgrinmusic
Instagram: @FoxGrinMusic
SoundCloud: @foxgrin
Twitter: @FoxGrinMusic