The epic origins of Citay actually began as a studio project by one Ezra Feinberg. Since 2004, the project has expanded into a full-fledged octet of incredibly talented musicians. The result is the first LP Little Kingdom, which has received considerable praise from critics everywhere (even Pitchfork!). Reviewers keep on throwing around the word ‘epic’ to describe Citay’s music, and as much as I hate to regurgitate what other people have said, the term is true to form.

Little Kingdom is a collection of beautiful soundscapes that are all topographically different, forming canyons with their complex dissonant valleys and their arching vocals. Each song fills a great expanse, as they possess an incredible voluminous character that is without rival. This work is certainly not derivative, nor would I classify it under any kind of improvisational genre. Every note seems loose and free, but yet I get the feeling that each is also precisely calculated. “Final Fantasy” is a magical conglomeration of the best of the Blue Man Group, the Allman Brothers, and Air, yet still remaining entirely unique. “Moonburn” is a dreamy sojourn through several rhythms and emotions, yet like every track on Little Kingdom, it serves as more of a celebration of music itself. Let the partying continue.

Go and get Little Kingdom. NOW!

Listen to “First Fantasy” (4.9/5) (courtesy of their record label, Dead Oceans)

Listen to “Moonburn” (4.6/5)