Math-rock trio Tera Melos has released the first of several videos from Patagonian Rats, its forthcoming album and journey into poppier terrain. The video for “The Skin Surf” is directed by Behn Fannin, known for his work with the Melvins. Making good use of a wide-angle lens and campy ’80s effects, the video rolls at a blistering clip and packs a visual wallop.
Tera Melos’ songs have traditionally been densely packed with so many wild shifts of time signature and chord structures that guitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Nick Reinhart jokes they were sounds that “only wizards could decipher.”
Unlike previous albums, Patagonian Rats ratchets up the melodies, finding room for catchy hooks amid dynamic improvisation. Vocals take center stage as well — a first for a band known for burying its vocals deep in the mix.
Profiled in ALARM 39 later this year, Patagonian Rats will be available everywhere via Sargent House on September 7, 2010.