The Narrows - "Alligator" CD (Wantage USA)

"Alligator" compiles "Days are Numbered" and "Six Ten," the first two full-length releases by Bellingham, Washington's The Narrows. That said, there are only seven tracks in all, but together they clock in at over an hour in length.

The Narrows' music is often moody, similar to a blend of slow-core and post-rock that evokes the deliberate pacing of Codeine, the eloquent dexterity of Slint and the drawn out determination of Engine Kid and Karate.

While songs such as "Stride" and "October's Problem" might lull the listener into a soothing state of relaxation, standout tracks "A Simple Turn of Page" and "Need for Progress" demonstrate that The Narrows are capable of creating amazingly loud intonations alongside dark and sinister tones.

As is the case with most releases on the Wantage USA label, the CD itself is a D.I.Y. labor of love, from the music's home-cooked recording feel to the handscreened CD packaging.

While the CD has some bombastic and beefy moments, evidence suggests The Narrows' would sound best in the live setting through a thunderous P.A. or in a sweaty, beer-drenched basement party. I believe the latter might be the better setting.

"Alligator" is recommended for fans of power trio rock, all the way from Blue Cheer and Creem to Federation X and Shellac.