An alternative rock band that uses the juxtaposition of poetic lyrics and a harsh vocalist to drive home some important themes, along with some that express paranoia. The band’s lead singer and guitarist, Isaac Brock, grew up in Montana and stayed true to his folk roots with his first production. As he grew, the band evolved, leading to the chaotic, yet highly entertaining band I adore.
Around my 8th birthday, my dad was driving me home from soccer practice when he played some music I was unfamiliar with. That band was none other than Modest Mouse. I enjoyed the music but didn’t love it like I do now. It took many years for me to realize that Isaac Brock’s brainchild produces the greatest music my ears have ever been exposed to. Since freshman year I have listened to them non-stop, exploring every album and idolizing almost every song I heard.
Their prime album, We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank, has been the only music playing in my AirPods since December. Every single song on the album, except for “Little Motel”, brings me immense joy; although the vocals are a bit different than traditional music. The album’s first song, “March Into The Sea” sounds almost like an angry shanty, with some slower drumbeats and many swinging guitar riffs. From there, the album takes a turn towards standard rock with the songs “Dashboard,” “Fire It Up,” and “Florida.” Nearer to the middle we get an incredible lineup of slower, more emotional songs with beautiful lyricism and strong messages. These passionate songs are followed by my favorites, with unorthodox vocal patterns and semi-slow drums, pushing the guitar and vocals to the forefront. “Fly Trapped In a Jar” is the beginning of this saga, with “Education” and “Steam Engenius” backing it up. “Spitting Venom,” another of my favorites, spans eight minutes with a plethora of tempos, chord progressions, and tones. “People As Places As People” surprises me with how much I enjoy it. I don’t prefer to listen to quiet music, yet Isaac Brock and Johnny Mar harmonize beautifully on guitar, and Brock’s vocals elevate the song’s soft tone. “Invisible” brings the album to a close with a faster, upbeat, tempo and harsh vocals. One of my top three albums, We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank has it all. I can listen to it on repeat for months at a time without ever feeling bored.