Formed in 2005, A Scribe Amidst the Lions (or simply, “Scribe”, to many friends and fans) are a San Diego-based band, specializing in a strain of psych-rock that aims at imagination and wide narrative. Lyrics are cryptic, themes expansive, songs structured progressively, instruments swapped at will. In addition to the core band at the center of their songs, Scribe utilizes a second drummer/percussionist, along with studio collaborations with string sections and horns. Thematically ambitious in the vein of Pink Floyd, with the haunting restraint of Radiohead, A Scribe Amidst the Lions reside in a world of their own telling, where politics leaves a mark both inside and out.

With the Lidless Kind (to be released 7/1/2011 via Bandcamp), the band employ a direct, contained song format, while maintaining the sonic ambition that has brought them to this point. Simple melodies and sparse arrangements carry with them complex themes.

At first approach, Backdoor Betty, with its raucous, vaudevillian rhythm, sounds like a light ode to a peep show. But a more careful listen yields a more nuanced theme – behind a fun beat, thoughtful minds are at work.

Within the EP’s short span, the band’s sonic capabilities are displayed: haunting, textured (Hot Chameleon and Rest Gentlemen), fully charged superhero rock (Listening In), thoughtful ballad, (Neckwell).

Watch and download below.

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Download A Scribe Amidst The Lions – Backdoor Betty mp3 (from the Lidless Kind)