Review / 200 Words Or Less
Small Sails
Similar Anniversaries

Other Electricites (2007) Shane

Small Sails – Similar Anniversaries cover artwork
Small Sails – Similar Anniversaries — Other Electricites, 2007

Hailing from Portland, Oregon, Small Sails are here to put you in a seriously great mood. Formerly known as Adelaide, this once cinematic instrumental band decided to add some vocals as an instrument and completely leave words out of the equation. "Ooohs" and "Ahhhhs" litter the album as the band traverses through ten tracks and sees them play everything from Rhodes Piano to vibraphone with very tasteful electronics backing it all. While there are some mellow moments on the album the band is at it's best when it's emitting positive vibes from all directions such as on the synth fronted "Aftershocks and Afterthoughts" or the precise sound of "Corners" which brings out the fondest memories of being a child. For fans of Sonna, the Roots of Orchis, or if you ever wanted to know what The Album Leaf would sound like if Jimmy Lavalle went his whole life without ever being heartbroken.

8.4 / 10Shane • July 8, 2007

Small Sails – Similar Anniversaries cover artwork
Small Sails – Similar Anniversaries — Other Electricites, 2007

Recently-posted album reviews

The Cascadian Divide

To the Sky
Independent (2026)

The Cascadian Divide is a Washington state based melodic skate punk band that formed during the infamous COVID lockdown. Although it started as an experiment, it soon became a passion project for the band members. The band has seen its share of line up changes over the years, but the commitment to maintaining the sound and integrity of the band … Read more

Jungle Rot

Cruel Face Of War
Unique Leader (2026)

Twelve albums and more than three decades into their career, Jungle Rot remains one of death metal's most reliable institutions. While countless bands have spent years chasing technical excess, progressive experimentation, or whatever trend happens to be dominating the underground now, the Kenosha veterans have remained committed to a simpler mission. Writing memorable riffs, locking into crushing grooves, and leaving … Read more

Overcalc

Fruits of the Decision Tree
Sleeping Giant Glossolalia (2024)

Some instrumental records create atmosphere while others create movement. Fruits of the Decision Tree feels like it creates an entire environment. It’s unstable, mechanical, strangely beautiful, and constantly in motion. The solo project of Nick Skrobisz (Multicult, The Wayward), Overcalc exists somewhere between electronic experimentation, prog-level guitar precision, ambient drift, and full on sci-fi hallucination. Trying to pin it cleanly … Read more