In a city that is obsessed with image and fame, it is always refreshing to find something that breaks the mold, and Culver City-based sextet, Bikos, does just that. Led by Gabriel Pearlman, the art-punk outfit creates raw, unadulterated tunes that drip with genuineness. I’m sure, like most bands, the six-piece strives for the ability to make music a career, but it is clear from first listen that its members have no intention to exchange musical integrity for success—they play from the heart, and they have fun with it.
This is apparent in every track that comprises Bikos debut release, Make Your Sound Sound. Pearlman’s wailing croons bare resemblance to the likes of David Byrne, and when he duets with vocalist/co-lead Miki Burton, you could swear you were listening to The B-52’s. Influences aside, this is not a copycat band. With six members, each brings something new to the table, resulting in a record that ranges in sound textures.
Just take the album’s first two singles, “You Want It,” and, “That is Mine.” The former is a rickety, fast-paced anthem led by staggering guitars and Pearlman’s and Burton’s clamorous shouts, and the latter, clocking in at just under five and a half minutes, takes more of a muddy, instrumentally focused approach—vocals don’t kick in until about the two-and-a-half-minute mark. From first listen, it’s hard to identify the songs as the same band, but after multiple spins, it’s apparent they have the same core.
This musical range is what’s going to set Bikos apart from other acts in its genre, and I look forward to see what 2012 brings its six loyal members. For now, a follow-up EP is in the works, and the band has a slew of local shows coming up (listed below). You can stream Make Your Sound Sound in its entirety here. – Katrina Nattress
Bikos LIVE:
Friday, 2/3 – Taix
Tuesday, 2/7 – The Echo
Friday, 2/10 – Lot 1
Thursday, 3/1 – Silverlake Lounge
Saturday, 3/10 – Cinema
Saturday, 4/7 – Cinema
