Mute Math

Armistice

(WEA/Reprise)

Mute Math utilizes a familiar formula to shape the sounds of their second album, Armistice. On paper, the band employs a classic rock quartet structure; guitar, bass, drums, and vocals. On wax, this does not always translate from track to track. As with their first self-titled album, the tracks are formed around the precise percussive stylings of Darren King and the soaring Sting-esque vocals of Paul Meany, equal co-founders of the band calling the Crescent City their home.

While the band does an excellent job of creating an engrossing atmosphere for each song on the album, this is often at the expense of rhythm guitar riffs and coherent bass lines. Too frequently, when these instruments are present, they are used merely as a complement to the song and add only a small melodic reverberation or distorted low frequency faded rumble.  It seems guitarist Greg Hill and bassist Roy Mitchell-Cardenas are intentionally muted into the background and replaced by louder piano loops, brass, or even violin. When the guitars are used to lead the song or are included more proportionally with drums and voice, the strongest tracks emerge from the album.

“Spotlight” shines brightest and passes for an alt-underground dance track number, in spite of its slow intro and abrupt ending. Layered, echoing vocals round out the song over up tempo high-hat and snare. “Electrify” comes alive and is accompanied by excited lyrics that describe the sensation one might experience during a charged emotional crush. The title track, “Armistice,” is another highly tactical track whose funk horns and breakbeat explode from the verse with strafing guitar during each chorus.

Undoubtedly inspired by the chaotic pressure imposed on the band to duplicate the acclaim of their first album, Armistice was declared just prior to the band’s implosion. Unfortunately, the aftermath of intense internal strife and song strategy battles has scarred the band’s potential for creative onslaught. As is often predictable with a sophomore release, the album as a whole is inferior to the first. Fans may be able to count the number of memorable songs on one hand.