Little King released Occam’s Foil
Little King is Ryan Rosoff (guitar, vocals), Manny Tejada (bass, backing vocals) and Eddie Garcia (drums, percussion). On November 4th, 2019 Little King dropped their new 5 track EP “Occam’s Foil” , this EP is a strong showing of the new lineup, and introduces fans to Manny Tejada on bass for the band. Rosoff has spent over 2 decades honing his craft and song writing,
The 5-song EP is a play on the theory “Occam’s Razor,” a problem-solving principle that states “Entities should not be multiplied without necessity,” as theorized English Franciscan friar William of Ockham. It is sometimes paraphrased by a statement like "the simplest solution is most likely the right one". This album is exactly that, it is the simplest solution to showcasing the new lineup.
The album kicks off with “Hate Counter”, which sets the tone for the album. A politically driven track prominently speaking about the border wall between the US and Mexico. The song features a strong showing from Rosoff vocally and lyrically. Providing a strong voice for the message, delivering a powerful emotion and raw outlook on the political climate. The track also provides an insight into the strength of the trio’s song writing.
Perhaps one of the more direct storytelling songs on the album is “The Skin That I’m In”. This track clearly tells a story while being accompanied by some unexpected violins. The song is the longest on the album and takes some very dramatic turns through out, building into a unapologetic break of drums and guitar.
“The Foil” is a track that provides a very interesting vibe and will be a song that many listeners focus on. The track is a vastly different arrangement from Hate Counter, and other tracks on the album. The song feels almost like a jam session, providing a change of pace for the listener. There is a certain amount of nostalgia to the song as well, while listening to the plucky guitar styling it takes the listener back to an early 90’s vibe.
“Forgotten Mile” is probably the most different track on the album. Much more laid back by comparison to other tracks on the album. It is also the shortest song on the album and features much softer vocals from Rosoff.
Closing out the album is “Nerve 8” . Edgy guitars, flighty percussion, strings, and a mix of tones that is unexpected. As unexpected as the sounds throughout the track is the lack of lyrics. Thats right, the album closes out with an instrumental track that truly shows the bands ability to provide a track that will hook a listener without ever saying a word.
In just these 5 tracks Little King is able to show listeners a glimpse of their musical reach. They are able to touch on a variety of musical sounds, while never sacrificing the authenticity of theirselves. This album as a whole may not be for everyone, but there are definitely tracks that anyone could enjoy, and coming from a 5 track EP that is quite the accomplishment.