Local noise rockers Gay Beast are back on the scene with their latest album Second Wave. The disc continues building on the abrasive and claustrophobic art rock that has gained them a strong reputation over the years. The first song released off the album, “EEEXXXPPPAAANNNDDDIIINNNGGG,” is a great entry point for the album. The song, like most of the 30 minute album, relies on the band layering schizophrenic drums, electronic bleeps and hisses, pulsing rhythms and distant vocals. The singing, which is more pronounced on the song than other parts of the disc, adds another stratum to the nearly overwhelming soundscape the band weaves together. Second Wave is a challenging, but ultimately supremely rewarding, venture into the cacophonous sounds this adventurous local band is taking. While this disc won’t be for everyone (you can safely venture that a band named Gay Beast isn’t shooting for top 40), it is one of the more engaging and unique local discs I have heard this year. The band will be celebrating the release of Second Wave Saturday night at the 7th Street Entry.

Gay Beast “EEEXXXPPPAAANNNDDDIIINNNGGG” (mp3)

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(uncredited photo via MySpace)