After experimental rock band Single Frame (Ashtray) dispersed in the late ’00s, former members Adreon Henry and Brendan Reilly teamed up to create Videoing. Welcoming artist Jen Bradley as vocalist, the trio began producing music for commercials, webisodes, and other viral outlets before debuting with their first official LP in 2012, Reader.
Their latest release, Treasure House, picks up where Reader left off. As the disc goes on, it becomes progressively stranger, distorting instruments and sound effects to create something that is completely bizarre. The five-song EP opens with “Under Water,” inviting the listener in with a fantastic mix of psychedelic echos and heavy, dark beats. They create a frantic vibe within the track by bouncing both Bradley and Henry’s vocals off each other as they take turns at the mic. This is followed by “Mr. Tom,” which consists of traditional rock elements more than any of the others on the disc, creating a sludgy, grunge feel throughout its verses before kicking into a more upbeat, power rock chorus. Another stand out is “The Fence,” a catchy dance tune that concludes by slowing down the synths and vocals until they are completely unrecognizable and borderline disturbing.
“Audrey Horne” closes out the EP, and is the slowest and most mellow on the album. This is a little disappointing, as it is definitely not their strongest song, and fails to end the EP on a high note. It also seems a little out of place, as the rest of the record is bubbly and laden with layered effects, while this one is very simple and solemn. Regardless, Treasure House is still a strong release, without a doubt setting Videoing apart from their contemporaries.
In A Word: Striking