Faceless, but not voiceless: Local indie band makes some noise

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A self portrait: Julian Coiner the face of Faceless Ones

by Morgan Buchanan, Reporter

Faceless Ones are making a name for themselves in the indie music scene. With one full-length album, a newly dropped single, and a second album on the way, the band is starting to gain attention.

The bands’ lead man is Linganore alumni, Julian Coiner (Lead vocal, keys, bass, percussion). Through the years, the band has had trouble maintaining steady musicians, but Coiner continues to write music and perform with musicians who blend with his vision of the band’s vibe.

Musically, their sound reflects that of Local Natives and Incan Abraham. On their own sound Coiner said, “I would describe our music as a glass of lemonade. So much yet so little goes into making a perfect glass. You have the core sour lemon mixed with just enough sugar to make that sweet taste that never really gets old. It brings you back to that warm summer day when you and your buddies are laughing around a campfire all the way to a soaked spring night as you watch the clouds tears fog your window. And the best thing about lemonade? You can always make a new batch once you find out that recipe, and that is something we definitely have!”

When it comes to inspiration, oddly enough Coiner said, “Prince. Everyone who knows me probably thought i’d say Local Natives and you are semi-right. Prince is just a genius. His story, his music, how he built himself up to be something great… And look at what he’s doing now. Totally wrote a great song called “Baltimore” after all the rioting that was occurring.”

Coiner also turns to his mother and drawing inspiration from her strength in dealing with her vast medical history. On writing music Coiner said, “A lot of the time it involves late nights reflecting a lot of built up anxiety. A lot of people don’t understand me and music is the best way for me to try to communicate everything.”

Their debut album Red & Subtract was released in April 2014 and the public received it with open arms. One Amazon reviewer said, “[Red & Subtract] simply sounds like a love letter to days past.”

The album contains 14 tracks, and while some rise to the top, none are left behind. Listeners are taken on a journey from start to finish. Red & Subtract has an overall feeling of nostalgia, taking the mind to different places, different times: a setting sun, a car ride with friends, an evening alone, dancing on a mountain top. This album, the music, it sets you free.

The grooviest song on the album, “Call it Capa,” emulates the feeling of youth. It takes listeners on an adventure with the band, and one can’t help but dance.

Midway through the album it’s as if day turns to night, and the mind begins to wander.

Lyrically “Player of Tomorrow” stands out with,

 

“I don’t know the difference of days anymore

And the creatures from dreams now appear on my floor.

Is this how it feels while I’m going insane?

Or could it just be my messed up brain?”

 

“Voice In A Jukebox” follows with an eerie aftertaste. The track is reminiscent of a lost Alice in Wonderland. The singer screams out, and listeners can feel the release of emotions, of pain.

As night fades to morning, one remembers they are not alone. “Pronouncing Red,” “Finger Puppet,” and, “ Whisper Wolves,” kind of feel like falling love. The feeling begins slowly, and everything is hazy, but it feels so warm.

The last song, “Ark” concludes the album with a bar scene: Strings pluck away, playing for an unknown crowd. Their chatter fills the background. Listeners can feel the album, the journey, coming to an end. It’s time to say goodbye to the music, to friends.

Faceless Ones continue to grow as a band. Their new single “Books of Juno,” is infectious in its ability linger for hours after the song has ended.

Coiner said, “I just want people to listen to our music because it’s different. We are trying to make something big out of something very small in the grand scheme of things and every person who takes away something from listening is giving us a win.”

Last month they played an acoustic set for WMUC radio show BlueJayWay Parade, followed by a show at Power Plant Live! Currently the band is working on shows and tour dates so stay tuned through social media.

All of Faceless Ones music is streamed through Soundcloud and is available for purchase on iTunes.