Jeff McLeod is a self-described “goofy sort of experimentalist,” that takes you into a world of swirling guitars and elongated feedbacks reminding you of James Iha’s own feedback sample in Drown, albeit less consistent but more raw.
Ever Stretching Shadows contemplates and captures the mood of a man sitting down with nothing but his instrument and amp reverb; tinkering away and forgetting that somewhere a record button is turned on. Made from a live field recording, the artist recorded 100 tracks, narrowing it to his top 6 and creating this 25 minute raw and eclectic guitar album.
Initially released as a limited 50 CD set, this album is now made available as a free download at WM Recordings which is the same label that has hosted the artists’ previous three recordings. With a deep affection for “improvisation and subversion of musical forms,” McLeod is one of those musicians who throughout his life, has had his stint in a multitude of bands from different genres like punk, metal, noise and even prog. Hence, this album slightly reflects his quiet and reserved side. Something each musician deems to release at some point in his career.
Personally, I love the whole vibe of the album. But then again, I’m a bit impartial because of my natural love for anything guitar related. The melancholy feel of the tracks might be a put-off for some, but for those who love to “wallow in misery” so to speak, then this will serve as a great album to relax to. He’s no Buckethead or John Petrucci when it comes to technicality, but then again I don’t think he’s aiming for that. Sometimes, it’s not the skill that you look for, but the feel and the soul that comes through when a musician sits down with his instrument of choice.
Related Links:
Jeff McLeod’s Website
Jeff McLeod on Myspace
Jeff McLeod on LegalTorrents.com
Jeff McLeod on Archive.org
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