#overdubs

More surprising still, at least for long-time Necks fans, is Body’s structure. Made up of four distinct movements — restive introduction; short sunbreak; kraut-rock raveup; entropic comedown — it’s their most focused release. Until now, the best Necks records (and Body is one of their best) used an ostensible lack of set structure to feel indefinite. Where records like Open, Aether, Drive By, and Hanging Gardens seem like they could go on forever, Body is decidedly narrative, with a clear beginning, middle and end. It’s their first long-form, studio recording that tells a story instead of creating a world.  

Like a great short story, Body is well worth revisiting, even after you know the plot twist, to savor details and subtleties you missed the first (or second or third) time around. Previous Necks records felt horizonless, but Body feels bottomless. It’s not the first Necks record to flesh out the acoustic core with overdubs, organ, guitar and electronics, but it is the richest. From the restless percussive overdubs of the first movement, to the phosphorescent electronics that light up the darkening conclusion, there’s something new and intriguing to hear in every second.  

Body’s dynamic structure and rock timbres make it the most accessible Necks release to date and an ideal introduction for a newcomer. As with all Necks releases, there’s enough telepathic musicianship to keep your ears enraptured; unlike most Necks releases, you can engage the rest of your body and dance, too.