Rings Black Habit
Previously known as First Nation, this trio changed its name to Rings when Abby Portner […]
Previously known as First Nation, this trio changed its name to Rings when Abby Portner (sister of Animal Collective’s David Portner) replaced a member. Black Habit, their debut for AC’s Paw Tracks imprint, is rife with tribal drums and circular jams. Co-produced with Múm’s Kria Brekken, the record feels slightly uneven. On one hand, the tone of the guitar and piano on tracks like “All Right Peace” and “Double Thanks” is warm and beneficent. But on the other, the vocals are too loud, and can get pretty grating at times, as on “Scape Aside.” Regardless, Black Habit has more good ideas than bad ones, resulting in a decent first effort.