All told, Minus The Bear performed practically flawless acoustic versions of all seven songs. But with a band as creative as this one is, there is a risk to stripping down one’s sound. Sure, it can open up a whole new side and feeling of a song never experienced before. Or, it can make the music sound too bland, lose its edge (so to speak), and too different from the original version you loved. For the most part, MTB’s new renditions are refreshing and repeat-worthy. On only a couple of occasions does a song seem less than great (as on the okay new song “Guns & Ammo”) or abandon too much of a beloved song’s core characteristics (“Pachuca Sunrise”).
Bottom line: Minus The Bear’s Acoustics EP is, by and large, a bold and successful experiment. Anyone who has been riveted by this band’s studio output or shows has to have it. You won’t be disappointed. In fact, you may find yourself wanting more acoustic Minus The Bear, maybe a whole album’s worth. In the meantime, pick up this EP at a show near you or grab the digital version now if you don't have that kind of patience.
To catch Minus The Bear on its cross-country tour of the U.S. from now through November, visit their website.
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