31 Knots - Worried Well

Generally, if an album opens with a 45 second song set to the sounds of clapping, I would expect either an overly pretentious rebellion against mainstream music or something out of Schoolhouse Rocks. Thankfully, and not to diminish the awesomeness of Schoolhouse Rocks, 31 Knots surpasses both of these with their latest offering, Worried Well. This disc is yet another step in the Portland band’s trek away from definable sounds and into a truly unique musical space.

The inventive percussion is constant throughout the disc, with rhythms and instruments changing frequently in each song. Rather than blending the drums, claps, pianos and bongos, 31 Knots create separate movements within each track, making it difficult to toe-tap along, but allowing great music regardless. The lyrics are similarly unexpected and initially seem confusing just for entertainment’s sake. But the track “Worried but Not Well” goes further, with lead singer Joe Haege breaking down to maybe an ex-girlfriend or bartender/therapist. Stumbling through lines, begging “why can’t you just believe me” is a serious drag on the mood, but it keeps 31 Knots from being written off as ridiculous entertainers rather than artists and musicians. The next track is another mood shift, opening with a bubbly vaudeville sound under instructions to “kill, kill, kill them all.”

Ultimately, the disc is well designed, with the carefully laid plans hidden behind surprising but purposeful music. Each listen reveals a new aspect of the album, so be prepared for addiction potential.

Label: Polyvinal Records
Release Date: 8-19-08

-Jessica Beeson