Icarus Himself's full-length release a sweet tribute to indie greats

"Coffins", released in April 2009

Madison rocker Nick Whetro is best known as the frontman of the National Beekeepers Society, but he's working on forging a new identity -- Icarus Himself. Whetro released Icarus's first LP, "Coffins," in April with the help of Beekeepers guitarist Karl Christenson.

Fans of the Beekeepers will recognize Whetro’s dark, quirky lyrics on “Coffins,” but the album showcases an entirely different musical style. Gone is the Beekeepers’ messy, impulsive garage rock. “Coffins” references cleaner, more ethereal indie rock instead, emulating bands who layer acoustic guitar over electric loops and ghostly vocal harmonies. Tracks like “Pigg” and “This Means Nothing” are clear nods to Neutral Milk Hotel, kicking off with rhythmic guitar and lonely vocals, then adding sustained electric reverb and finishing with uninterrupted noisy instrumentals.

There are a few tracks that feel suspiciously like previously released National Beekeepers Society songs, however. “Scars” was, in fact, released in 2006 on the Beekeepers’ self-titled debut—but this slower, more plaintive version adds new desperation to a song about a young woman struggling with self-image and societal pressure. Additionally, “Lessons from the Flood” and “Sometimes I Can’t Stand You, but That Doesn’t Mean I Don’t Want You Around” are almost exactly like two tracks off the Beekeepers’ 2008 album, “Pawn Shop Etiquette.”

Despite borrowing material from his other band, Whetro produced a solid album as Icarus Himself. The tracks form a cohesive unit and maintain the wispy indie-rock style without becoming tired or formulaic.

Icarus Himself will perform at High Noon Saloon at 8:00 on August 3 before leaving Madison for a Midwest tour.