Mellowdrone A Demonstration of Intellectual Property

[Artist Direct; 2003]

Rating: 4/5

Styles: One of this year’s more enjoyable albums may also be its most affordable. Actually, it’s free of charge to anyone not lazy enough to wander on over to Mellowdrone’s website. Once there, you can simp
Others: The Beta Band, Doves, Her Space Holiday


One of this year’s more enjoyable albums may also be its most affordable. Actually, it’s free of charge to anyone not lazy enough to wander on over to Mellowdrone’s website. Once there, you can simply give your email address (or your next-door neighbor’s) and date of birth, and you’re all set. Hey Jon, why do you need our date of birth, man? Maybe it’s due to the language— who knows?  Anyway, who doesn’t like a free album from time to time? You’re even provided with the cover art in case you feel the need to become your own personal recording company for a day. Recorded by the one man team known as Mellowdrone, this short but sweet 18-minute album is full of catchy alt-rock recordings. Each song has its own style, and runs the gamut of a lot of today’s current styles of music.    

This is not your typical lo-fi album, though, as Jonathan Bates must have one hell of a home recording studio. The album was recorded in his home and sounds as if real studio time was purchased for the final mixing. The first track, “Tinylittle,” eases you into the album with a gentle acoustic guitar-driven intro reminiscent of both The Microphones and Her Space Holiday. “Fashionably Uninvited,” arguably the albums best track, conjures sounds of The Beta Band at their best. The rest of the album is on par, with intense use of guitars and playful vocals. “Beautiful Day” drones along with heavy bass and Beck-like vocals. “Bitelip” acts as the end to a fairly quick music experience. Lasting only 18 minutes, this is a little gem that deserves anyone’s attention. Did I happen to mention the affordability?    

1. Tinylittle
2. Fashionably Uninvited
3. And Repeat
4. No More Options
5. Ridealong
6. Beautiful Day
7. Bitelip