Although it was somewhat overshadowed by recent releases from his full-time group, Doug Bleichner has released yet another impeccable EP via his solo project, Meat. Anyone who has heard his previous releases knows that his musical talent goes far beyond the frantic yet mechanical drumming he contributes to Warehouse. So it should come as no surprise that the multi-instrumentalist’s new EP, Wasted, is another expansive display of lush, understated pop.
Bleichner’s wandering guitar work never stumbles as he crafts and reworks hooks without adding any of their simplicity. For the most part these are sunny songs, but rather than sweaty midsummer pop, he imbues each track with contrasting shadows. It’s often hard to tell how many Meat songs are delivered with a wink, but regardless of intent, the observational lyrics are full of wispy nostalgia that sticks with the listener despite the veiled phrasing.
It should be noted that this is the first album that enlists Josh Hughes’ synthesizer talent. The fellow Warehouse member was also responsible for the recording and mixing, and the result is more textured than previous efforts. Apart from Hughes’ contributions, Bleichner plays every instrument on the record, a worthy accomplishment considering how well each piece falls together.
Wasted isn’t much of a departure from his previous EP, Buff Yuppie, but that only serves to remind the listener how many shimmery pop songs are swimming around in Bleichner’s brain. Despite the use of similar guitar tones and vocal mannerisms throughout the 7-song effort, the record never sounds repetitive. On the final track, “Highways and Trees,” he steps away from the beachy sound of the rest of the EP in favor of a stripped-down approach. The result is a minimal, magnetic cut that is more engaging than anything else on Wasted. Warehouse may be getting all the press right now, but if you overlook Meat, you’re missing the better of the two projects.
You can catch Meat tonight at the Earl when he plays in support of Omni (Record Release) and Illegal Drugs. Fellow locals DiCaprio open the show. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $10.
More Info
Bandcamp: meatbandatlanta.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @meatbandatlanta