Album Review: Trichotomous Hippopotamus - Let's Play
TRICHOTOMOUS HIPPOPOTAMUS
Let's Play
July 29, 2016
8.5/10
Sonically full, musically balanced, playful lyrics, and an obvious dedication to craft make the Trichotomous Hippopotamous debut rise above the standard cut and dry heavy rock album.
Trichotomous Hippopotamus are (left to right): Connor O'Shaughnessy (drums), Jesse Gaze (bass), and Ryan Lentine (guitar, vocals)
At this point in my time spent in Fort Wayne it almost seems that you could put the names of 100 local musicians in a hat, pull out three or four, and they'd be able to put together a solid mix of songs. But a lot of that is irrelevant if the band mates aren't all on the same page. And the fellas of Trichotomous Hippopotamus, or 3Hippo, certainly have that factor going for them. It seems from listening to their debut album Let's Play that all the pieces in this record are working collectively towards the same goal, making a mighty fine rock album.
Another major component this band has going for it, is fun. While it may sound a bit tacky to say a band is "fun". I don't simply mean that they have fun songs and put together a fun set. But rather, they simply have fun playing, and that energy is contagious whether you're seeing them at a packed show at the Brass Rail or listening to this record in your car stereo (which I HIGHLY recommend).
Musically speaking, these three are stacked with talent. And track by track each one of them get's a chance to shine and strut. Tracks like "Somebody Better", "Space Cadet", and "Look at Her Go" really allow Bass, Guitar, and Drums, respectively, to have their say. But more importantly it never sounds like each one is stepping on the toes of the other which is a major problem in young bands putting out heavier rock albums. There's enough balance in the arrangements that you can pick up parts and appreciate them.
All in all, the debut from Trichotomous Hippopotamus is a solid rocker. The perfect record to throw in your car for a sunny afternoon drive with the windows down. Just be careful as it gets heavier your foot doesn't do the same. Rock proudly, drive safely.
Make sure you hit the band up on Facebook and Instagram and also visit their website: 3hippomusic.com
Also make sure you join them at O'Sullivans on July 29th for their album release show, grab a copy of the record, and request they sing accapella.