Hello friends! It has been a while since I have drunk from the cup of heresy but I am back with two choice offerings and I am excited to dive in. This week’s offerings: Crestfallen Queen‘s Hall of Maati and Odell Brewing Company’s Sippin’ Tropical Sour.
The Tunes: Crestfallen Queen – Hall of Maati
I was drawn to this band because they have a badass female vocalist (known as E), and their music speaks to my doom loving black heart. Additionally, Hall of Maati is a concept EP that explores Egyptian mythology (a subject that I love). This two-track EP spans 20 minutes and is full of doom-laden riffs, spooky ancient synths, blackened tempos, and E’s powerful vocals. There is a lot of rise and fall within these two tracks; quieter moments feature some acoustic guitar melodies and almost conversational drumming with irregular tempos and cymbal accentuated notes. Melodic electric guitar solos are heard, some more delicate with an almost violin impersonation—otherworldly and bright. The middle of the EP where the two tracks meet contains an atmospheric unnerving droning as if uncovering an ancient tomb. The melodies and mix of rhythms in Hall of Maati are so immersive and captivating that it is easy to forget that everything is confined in just two tracks. E’s alluring and majestic vocals along with the psychedelic and impressive guitar solos in between are enchanting and enough to blow me away. The EP ends with haunting piano playing backed with guitar accentuating the tune and adding some mystery. The piano plays one final high note that rings out into the ether and slowly fades as the song ends. These tracks are the right amount of ghostly and groovy and I am left wanting more and wishing this was a full release. I will be on the lookout for Crestfallen Queen’s next endeavor and continue to indulge in Hall of Maati until then.
The Booze: Odell Brewing Company – Sippin’ Tropical Sour
We are in the relentless winter months that here in Chicago feel unending. The snow has piled up and is not going anywhere anytime soon. Looking for an escape, I stumbled upon this delightful beer from Odell Brewing Company. First of all, how adorable is that sloth? The artwork is lovely, joyful, and inviting. Second, this is a delicious sour ale with notes of pineapple, passion fruit, tangerine, and a tiny touch of Himalayan pink sea salt. It is vacation in a can. Each sip starts with a bit of a caramel sweetness, then turns sour with a very subtle hint of salt at the end. The body is very light and crisp and easy to drink and enjoy whether you are on the beach or just dreaming of waves. The citrus taste is mild, and I mostly detect the passionfruit. The flavor is just enough to be identified and enjoyed without being overpowering. The ABV is 4.5% which is just enough to take the edge off and sink deep into the sand or, in my case, a desk chair. Either way, this well-balanced and delicate sour ale is perfect to delight in and bring a bit of sunshine and warmth.
Cheers and blessed be,
– Angela
Nine Circles 