Review of Herd Of Mers - Aurora Caught Napping

By Mike Wood

Debut record by Providence duo Karen and John Orsi. Driven equally by the power of Karen's angular guitar and impressionist lyrics, and John's percussion work, "Aurora Caught Napping" is a lo-fi, occasionally post-punk but always grounded in rhythmic structures that guide you through the outbursts. The title track, especially, as well as "Dirty Shoes" feature brittle guitar lines that threaten to erupt and overshadow the softly chanted words, but remain just enough at bay for tension's sake. "Karen Orsi's stripped down yet evocative playing on "Walls" recalls the rude harmonics of "Cold Turkey" era Lennon, though much more controlled. The guitar/percussion interplay keeps that line straddled between chaos and brooding that make this a satisfying record. John Orsi' tribal grooves keep equal pace on "Fold," and take over at surprising moments on "Midge."Herd of Mers is one duo not trying to sound bigger or into drawing attention to themselves for being a cool duo. But they are. They create and disturb space with equal intensity, often leaving the listener wondering whether to lean in closer to hear what's up or to take a wise step back. Either way, Aurora Caught Napping" may make you dreamy, but you'll sleep with one eye open for sure.