There seem to be a plethora of bands with interesting textures to their sound popping up lately. A polished groove slightly off center of mainstream, if you will. Wave and Rome is one of those bands. The project is headed up by Sam Tinnesz, but had heavy guidance from Josh Farro (Farro, Paramore) amongst others. I was also thrilled to read that Across the Map was mixed by Chad Howat of Paper Route, and produced by Matt Bronleewe (who famously electronically remixed Plumb’s self harm ballad “Cut” in the mid 00’s).

Across the Map stylistically reminds me a bit of another favorite discovery of 2015, Valise of Dallas, Texas. Across the Map succeeds at holding my attention well, with some little easter egg surprises interspersed amongst the five songs. Keyboard appreggios in “Wandering Wolf” remind me of Purity Ring, and lush guitar progressions nifty enough to give you a little chill down your spine in “Take Flight” (that’s called “frisson,” by the way).

Each song reminds me of something I’ve heard before initially, and then takes me on its own journey. To namedrop some indie bands you might or might not be aware of, the first names that come to mind in the pensive yet pounding opening percussion and guitar melodies of “Hands Over Eyes” are Field Mouse and Sick/Sea. There seems to be a bit of Jason Martin of Starflyer 59 influence here as well, although the shoegaze element is toned down in favor of more straightforward ambient rock at times. And, the aforementioned “Take Flight” has a groove reminiscent of MUTEMATH. That little guitar melody alone is enough to make this one of my favorite tracks of the year!

Wave and Rome is a hidden gem that I really hope isn’t doomed to be a one off project for these seasoned Nashville musicians.

Score: 4.4/5

Wave and Rome: Facebook | iTunes