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Sunday, 08 April 2007 11:05

It's primarily instrumental, but with some kind of humming or background vocals on most of the tracks. This gives the album a unique flavor - sort of a mix of French soundtrack music and the lighter side of Chicago post-rock.

I don't know about you, but I like breezy, atmospheric music when I'm driving - something to complement the experience of heading down that old winding road from Point A to Point B. There's a type of music that fits the bill perfectly: Sweden's Magyar Posse comes to mind, as does the little half-hour gem by the Inner Banks that was released a few months ago. Add the indie debut by Portland's Small Sails (they've a previous self-release to their credit) to this list of relaxing music for short drives.

It's primarily instrumental, but with some kind of humming or background vocals on most of the tracks. This gives the album a unique flavor - sort of a mix of French soundtrack music and the lighter side of Chicago post-rock. In fact, this could well be the best album I've ever heard whose only lyrics consist of "bah bah bah," "whoa whoa whoa" and the like. Band members Ethan Rose, Gary Jimmerson, and Adam Porterfield utilize acoustic guitars, marimba (God, I love that instrument), soft electronica, and percussion to create gently flowing compositions that conjure a mood of melodic wistfulness effortlessly.

If you're not instantly charmed by lilting tracks such as "Earthbound With Parents" and "No Spirit Animal," then you're a dodo-head. This is just sweet, graceful soundtrack art for whatever you're doing while listening to it, and it'll put you in a good mood. Small Sails...big pleasure! A | Kevin Renick

RIYL: The Album Leaf, Tristeza, American Analog Set