Brokeback - Look At The Bird

Doug McCombs and Noel Kupersmith's (aka Brokeback's) third LP attempts more traditional song arrangements. But true to McCombs' Chicago-centric instincts—guest appearances from Jim O'Rourke among others—Brokeback don't deviate from post-rock, with only a tinge of jazz noir as respite. For while silvery reverb may now predominate, slow-shifting movements and droning textures show McCombs choosing familiarity over fresh adventures. It's hypnotic stuff, but for a side project it's self-defeating.

Rating: 2 / 10