Las Vegas instrumental progressive rock band Tree Frog Express have once again pushed the boundaries of genre with their latest EP, Always Has Been. This new release builds on the foundations of 2021's Apnea, pushing the envelope even further with a blend of progressive rock, math rock, post-rock, and elements of jazz, metal, hip-hop, and classical music. The result is a sonically rich and diverse collection of tracks that highlights the band's unique ability to experiment while maintaining a strong sense of cohesion.
The opening track, "Exhale", sets a strong tone with its complex, intricate guitar riffs and a rhythm section that effortlessly shifts between time signatures. The saxophone is observably a standout feature throughout the EP, balancing the heavier guitar-driven sections with moments of serene, jazz-inflected beauty.
"Servehzah" follows with more intricate rhythms, combining Deftones-inspired riffs with ambient, post-rock influences. The interplay between the band members is exceptional, with the drums and bass grounding the track while the guitars and saxophone explore complex melodies and textures. This energy continues through "Moon Trip", the longest of all four.
But "22" is the pinnacle of Always Has Been. Initially written by guitarist Jeb Cody, the song was expanded upon with input from the other members and producer Louis Paparone. "22" encapsulates everything Tree Frog Express stands for, combining heavy guitar riffs, lush saxophone, massive drum fills, and a groovy bassline into an expansive, emotionally charged composition.
With Always Has Been, Tree Frog Express reaffirm their place in the prog-rock scene. The EP proves to be a powerful follow-up to Apnea and establishes Tree Frog Express as a force to be reckoned with.
Stream Always Has Been below.
Sam is a mediocre artist, musician, and the founder and editor in chief of UNXIGNED. He is a Juris Doctor who leads an excitingly boring life in the confines of his room juggling studies with passion and dreams. He is terrible at finding balance but gets by anyhow. He wants you to follow his artist pages and channels for when he decides to up his game. Pretty open for collabs and will mix your would-be hit song for cheap.
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