Añopechi (awn-yo-pechi)

In what is their second release to date the Gervais, Oregon
trio, Añopechi, has taken a gigantic stride towards becoming a well
recognized national act with their EP, Big Brain; the question is however,
whether or not they have truly embraced this idea for themselves.
In one of the most climatic moments of the album, vocalist Alex
Preciado delivers the indifferent statement, “I don’t care, and I don’t
care.” And, this line comes near the end of what is possibly the most
inspired and thought-provoking song of the bunch. The sheer technically
and intricacy of the song is, in itself, a testament of the effort it took to
write. But, to the thoughtful listener, this lyric may suggest questions of
motive or commitment when the music screams otherwise. Even in an
interview, the trio of Alex, Dustin, and Tammy tend to quickly underplay
the far-reaching capabilities of their current body of work and often side-
step the tough questions of substance and meaning. Eventually we find
however, that this juxtaposition of apathetic mind and passionate method
is somewhat of an unconscious ruse; one that becomes an important
thematic element that runs deep within the EP and the members in
general. As a listener, one is afforded an intriguing combination of keen
musicianship with a clever, almost deceptive ease. Big Brain is intelligent
and savvy as it is harmonious and simple; and it is brilliant in this manner.
What does this mean on a greater scale? It means Añopechi is
able to endear themselves to listeners across several genres. Versed
musicians will appreciate the dynamic rhythms and complex breaks and
stop tempos that are adeptly interspersed throughout each song. The
more casual listener will easily enjoy the catchy hooks and choruses
without having trouble with the complicated time signatures. It is in
this style and rhythmic acumen that I hear hints of Moneen’s 2003, “Are
We Really Happy With Who We Are Right Now” album; Dynamic and
tricky while firmly rooted with a melodic style and nature. The addition of
Tammy to the band in early 2010 has proven to be instrumental in making
this possible. Her vocals on, “Love Doesn’t Wait, Ya Know?,” provide a
perfect complement to Preciado’s in telling the song’s fickle love story.
The story of a rollercoaster relationship seems to be a perfect
addition to the EP as a whole. It’s a song that metaphorically applies to
the entire collection of tracks on a greater level. At times this album will
make you want to get up and dance or rock out and at others you will find
comfort in the softer, jazz-inspired moments. “I Can Wait Real Good” even
incorporates the use of a cello to fade the album out in style. It’s an EP
that anyone can enjoy right from the first listen and then, subsequently, find
themselves discovering new layers and nuances over time.
The songs on Big Brain were recorded entirely by Añopechi in their
personal home studio, which displays the kind of music IQ and expertise
that the member’s possess. To those closest to the band, they can attest
that many tireless months went into the writing and recording process. This
dedication has certainly paid dividends in producing a thorough and well-
polished final product. With Big Brain’s release in addition to their excellent
live show, Añopechi leave no doubt that they are ready to take their act to
a bigger stage. And, it’s a fact that they have now truly come to terms with.