You rarely hear the word ‘neo-classical’ describing bands coming out of Brooklyn right now, but for the progressive quartet ensemble, et al. it’s the first thing that comes to mind. For their first full length album (in its entirety below), ‘Present Point Passed‘, the band cultivates expressive, post-rock symphonies out of chimes and just about any instrument on hand, all while forgoing vocals. ensemble, et al.’s meticulous orchestration of percussive elements revives the seemingly antiquated spirit of classical genres in order to create a modern, minimalist sound in part reminiscent of post-rock masters Tortoise. Be sure to catch them in Brooklyn tonight (08.11) at the Knitting Factory. – Sam O’Hara
