Album Review: The Mouse Shadow by Stoneburner
Released in 2015 under the US-based label Distortion Productions, Stoneburner’s The Mouse Shadow is an intriguing blend of Pop/Rock and Electronic music with a Tribal twist. It’s not your everyday album—it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it carves its own niche with pulsating rhythms, haunting melodies, and lyrics that linger long after the final note fades. If you’re into music that feels like a journey rather than just background noise, this one’s worth exploring.
Two tracks stand out immediately: “Hayt Reminders” (or maybe it's "Hayt Remembers"—the title alone sounds kinda cryptic) and “The Age of Pretenders.” Both hit hard but for different reasons. “Hayt Reminders” kicks things off with a hypnotic beat that feels primal yet futuristic, like something you’d hear echoing through a desert rave on Mars. The tribal drums are relentless, driving the song forward while eerie synths weave in and out. You can’t help but feel pulled into its strange world. Meanwhile, “The Age of Pretenders” switches gears with sharp guitar riffs layered over glitchy electronics. There’s a raw energy here, almost as if the band is channeling frustration or defiance directly into your ears. It’s catchy without being too polished, which gives it a real edge.
One thing I gotta mention—the album repeats some tracks, like “The Age of Pretenders” and “The Inherent Evil of Face Dancers,” showing up twice. At first, I thought it was a mistake, but then again, maybe it’s intentional? Like they want you to notice these songs more or hear them differently the second time around. Either way, it adds a quirky touch that makes The Mouse Shadow feel less conventional and more experimental.
Other standouts include “Miraculous Voices,” where lush harmonies meet industrial beats, creating a soundscape that’s both ethereal and gritty. And don’t sleep on “Lisan Al Gaib”—its slow build-up leads to a crescendo that’ll leave you breathless. Honestly, every track has its own vibe, making the album feel cohesive yet unpredictable.
What strikes me most about The Mouse Shadow is how unapologetically bold it is. This isn’t music made to please everyone; it’s crafted for those who crave depth and originality. Listening to it feels like stepping into another dimension—one where rules don’t apply, and creativity runs wild.
To wrap it up, Stoneburner delivers an experience that sticks with you—not because it’s perfect, but because it’s daring. By the end of the album, you might find yourself wondering why there aren’t more bands blending tribal influences with electronic rock. Oh, and here’s a random thought: if The Mouse Shadow were a movie, it’d probably star David Bowie as the lead. Just saying.
