Denver trio Homebody slide easily into the yelp rock category, which people tend to love or hate. But there’s lots more on offer beyond the singing style: skittering, stripped-down arrangements, smoothly clean guitar jangle, songs that skid around unpredictably, less earnestness than that genre typically showcases.
They’ve called themselves “anti-party post-pop,” and when you zero in on the lyrics, it’s true that they lean toward depressed. (Sample song titles: Alarm, Distressed, Shallow Breathing.) The overall feel, though, is buoyant and curious, thanks in part to the upbeat melodies.
Permanent Accompanist has long instrumental sections and tempo changes in addition to a cheery vocal melody. Hollow Nest has terrifically rushing note-y guitar lines that propel it into the afternoon sunshine. Guilter Shrine is the most post-punky and angular track, casting some welcome shadows.
The members are clearly instrumentalists first, songwriters second, but both worlds meld often enough to satisfy.
Top track: Hollow Nest
Homebody play Friday (June 19) at Backyard BBQ Banger at 8-11 and Smiling Buddha as part of NXNE.
