Search - Sky Cries Mary :: Exit at Axis

Storytelling SCM-style

Todd V | Osaka | 06/14/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Exit At the Axis calms the synthesizers and comes forward with a beat-oriented set that focuses on simple melodies and strong lyrics. The smooth, mellow style of EAtA is most like This Timeless Turning without the cathartic howls, but produces its own moments of clarity nonetheless. "Moon Dream Meadow Allegory" softly intros the EP, leading into "Back to the Sea," the most melodical and predictable of the four. Though closer to standard rock than SCM generally puts out, "Back's" driving core rhythm, layered with light and heavy musical elements--harps, percussion, harmonies, more--makes for a great piece. "Cornerman" is heavy beats and advice-for-life lyrics remeniscent of "Deep Sunless Sea" from This Timeless Turning, but lacks the depth and intensity. So why do you buy the EP? "Elephant Song." If Roderic's crooning presentation of a transcendental legend of creation doesn't have you swaying in your seat, the ever-intensifying drums, guitar and synth will. Anisa even throws in some wordless wailing for true fans, rounding out the long piece and making it a must have for those who hit the repeat button on the last two tracks of This Timeless Turning. If This Timeless Turning is your cup of Sky Cries Mary tea, EAtA is good to have to get to know the band's softer side. Mechanically and emotionally, though, it doesn't measure up to its big brother."

A Band is Born Again

the Chad | 07/03/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What an incredible ep to start the second phase of your career. This album was the mark of a major turning point in sound and writing from the band's previous output. Most bands are lucky to get 1 shot at the big time these guys got 2 and got away with it.
Exit at the Axis starts off with a definite mood setter; a mood that is maintained throughout the whole album. I believe this album was designed to place you on a cloud high above the world and give you space in your mind to isolate how you feel and what you think. The music and soft vocals are soothing and melodic. There is never a point on this album were the sound becomes irritating and shakes you from your previous mood.
The songs are very structured, they draw you in so you feel as though you are with the singer experiencing what they are feeling and seeing.This is a polished work of art, its not rushed or pieced together with leftover material.Every song flows into the next like a river into the ocean.
This is an excellent album to listen to if you are alone and want to relax. Or if you are reading or working on some hobby and you want music in the background that wont distract you. I have even used this album when I have a date over or a couple of friends for a evening. By the way I always get a couple of comments about how nice the music is."

Zeitgeist

Dave | 04/19/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"SCM at their nascient best. All four tracks are excellent, but two are absolutley outstanding. Cornerman and Elephant Song are more than well worth the money by themselves. The other two are also strong tracks. Kick back and listen to the spirit of a much more innocent time not that long ago as it happened in a rain drenched paradise called Seattle."