Artist of the Day: 10 Paces, Fire

Following up my 2012 top albums and EPs list, I wanted to make this post after I saw Twenty / Twelve come out last year; I didn't get around to it then, so I'm working on it now.

In 2010, 10 Paces, Fire shattered genre definition by releasing an album that was essentially progressive indie-rock fused with 90's emo, math rock, and post-rock, all with a solid vocal foundation. Released three years after their formation, Stop-Motion Recollections was a beautiful release that garnered them attention towards their sound, and helped them form their completely individualized niche in music. The album's sound was incredible - it struck deeper than emo on an emotional level, carried complexity matching up to any prog-rock band and sounded sincere and honest, much like any indie folk band would try to put forth on a record.

A year and a half later would see the band's sophomore album released; at the time, I was focusing so much on other things that I didn't really recognize it for what it was, and looking back, somewhat regret not putting it on my 2011 list. Why? Because Lakes Refract & Lakes Reflect is my driving music. It goes in my car with me wherever I go, and it (sometimes literally) brings me to places of nostalgia. The album uses less "studio magic" than the first and provides a very natural sound, one that they could easily perform live and have the same effect (probably a first for any post-rock band, honestly).

Finally, in the early half of December 2012, the band released Twenty / Twelve, and their tale drew to a close soon after. In fact, the band's Facebook has pictures of their final show, which happened less than a week ago. I'm sorry to see them go; their music has been so inspiring for musicians, and so motivational for listeners everywhere. They're all such great guys, and I really hope to see at least some of their names resurface in the music industry somewhere. Until then, we have a total of 12 fantastic tracks with their names plastered on them to hang onto and keep with us. From the bottom of my heart: good luck, guys.

The 10 Paces, Fire bandcamp has all of their music to stream for free; if you haven't heard of them, take a listen and see what you missed.