The Press

Noxious Saucy Beast

Goodnight Records 2005

There’s a gratifying feeling to tapping your feet under a dinner table. No one knows you’re doing it, yet the incessant rhythm in your head keeps you in a good mood. That’s what the first few listens to The Press’ Noxious Saucy Beast is like. The EP is daring, innovative, and the fun sneaks up on you.

The remarkable thing about Noxious Saucy Beast is how the music shifts from rolling, fluid guitars to lush piano strains, and how meticulously these shifts match the group’s vocals. The best example would be “Saint Pete: Maitre D’,’” which starts off slowly, but the melody swells into a tidal wave of twinkly rhythms and beats.

One of the most delightful parts of the EP is how the band shares lead vocal duties. Members Michael Henry, Dave Schneider and John Walsh bring distinctive singing styles that draw comparisons to everyone from David Byrne to Modest Mouse’s Isaac Brock. The emotional peak of the EP, both lyrically and vocally, comes in “Fattest Pigeon.” It’s unfortunate the EP doesn’t list the vocalist for each song, so I can’t give credit to the proper band member who handled this song.*

Speaking of Modest Mouse, the current wave of indie rock may have anesthetized the market for bands like The Press. But the overcrowding could be a blessing in disguise, because while Mouse’s hit “Float On” has sunk deeply into commercial waters (a version appears on the Kidz Bop 7 album), a band like The Press is a breath of fresh air. Their music bends any specific genre and snaps it back into a unique, cohesive sound.

Noxious Saucy Beast combines complex rhythms and inventive production without neglecting memorable, can’t-get-out-of-your-head tunefulness. The upbeat, rock steady tune “Senor Rodriguez” ends with the line “We hold the rainbow.” It’s time you get your hands on this EP as well.

– Marc Cuenco