Portland, Maine-based band This World Has Bees has unveiled two new tracks, “Shapes” and “Shadows,” from their recent release, “This Barren Place.” These tracks showcase the band’s ability to blend intricate musical arrangements with captivating melodies.
Shapes
“Shapes” begins with a delayed and reverberant guitar that rises from silence, establishing interesting time signatures and grooving forward with an irregular pulse. Energetic drums add intensity and focus, enhancing the track’s dynamic nature. As the song progresses, the arrangement becomes more intense, culminating in blistering guitars that drive the first part of the track to a powerful conclusion.
Shadows
“Shadows” continues lovely chorus arpeggios on the guitar, with melodic lines adding depth to the mood. The track progresses slowly, with downtempo drums adding to the atmosphere and bringing momentum. Rhythmically straightforward, “Shadows” captivates with its epic guitar lead, creating a memorable and evocative listening experience.
In the lead-up to March of 2020, This World Has Bees worked on various iterations of these tracks, many of which changed drastically over time. After nearly two years of isolation, the band revisited and refined their work, going through multiple recording sessions, re-amping parts, changing effects, and several mixing sessions. They now present these pieces with confidence, hoping listeners enjoy them as much as they do.
Released on June 24, 2024, these tracks were recorded at Maine Music Mill, with Andy Porta handling the recording and mixing, and Sam Stauff mastering the final cuts.
Band Members:
- Keith McBride: Guitar
- Bill Pennings: Drums
- Drew Dickinson: Bass
- Branden Clements: Guitar