1. The Fool and the Feign
2. Dead Ringer
3. Of Weddings and Funerals
4. Warriors! Come out and Play
5. Fate and Chaos
6. At Age 23
7. Decepticon
8. Iron Coat
9. Blue Holes
10. Crying, but Without Tears

The forceful trio known as Fin Fang Foom present Texture, Structure, and the Condition of Moods as their versatile and challenging debut full-length. Barreling through the speakers, "The Fool and the Feign" provides listeners with an engaging entry into the band's expansive sound as the first song. Eddie Sanchez's soaring, smooth voice is anchored by the brawny rhythms of his bass and Mike Glass' exact timekeeping on the drum kit, while dense chords comprise Mike Triplett's guitar work and weave themselves into the solid foundation of the rhythm section.

Far from being minimalistic, vocals are hefty and sustained. The guitar and drums especially on "Fate and Chaos" burst forth with urgency and conviction, and Fin Fang Foom's sheer volume looms and towers over the listener, commanding attention. But what sets the young group apart is their depth. The striking thing about Texture, Structure, and the Condition of Moods is its fullness, but not necessarily just in terms of loudness. The Fin Fang Foom's first CD is also one that showcases a deep understanding of dynamics and orchestration. Quieter, more reflective moments expressed through flute or keyboards in songs such as "Dead Ringer" frame and soften the piece. The trio is careful to ensure each track has subtle nuances that prevent it from being purely bombastic.

Texture, Structure, and the Condition of Moods is an excellent primer on balance. From murky to bright, calculating to mellow, dense to light, the North Carolina threesome draws from an impressive palette to create a layered, tempered album. Fin Fang Foom has created a stimulating sound on their first full-length with measured use of different elements in a broad musical spectrum. Methodical arrangements and instrumentation captivate and intrigue the listener, and repeated listenings of Texture, Structure, and the Condition of Moods guarantee new discoveries in the songs' labyrinthine construction. This spectacular first effort, with its attention to symmetry and equilibrium, is a hopeful sign for a promising band.

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