Coyol’s Newest Single Builds EP Release Buzz

“The Beast” is another dust bowl worthy track appears off the anticipated release of Coyol’s self-titled debut EP.

Low notes of a rustic acoustic guitar roll off in an appropriate sentimental lo-fi manner carry “The Beast” in. The fret buzz off the guitar would appear amateur if its quaintness didn’t pacify so benevolently. Female vocalist Céleigh Chapman leads the duo with the voice of an emotionally battle worn angel. John Isaac Watters, Chapman’s male counterpart, follows suit with an analogous sullen approach.

Watters’ established brazen style in “Gone Gone,” the previously released single, showed him to utilize the Conor Oberst patented rattle of a shaky voice. The quiver is much more subdued in this track, though appears exaggerated than ever for the baritone sung title drop lyric, “A burden / A beast.” While Watters’ quaky voice doesn’t have the allure or beauty of Oberst, he does engage the listener with a competitive precision.

Friend and EP producer Will Gramling heavily clamors on a bold piano that assumes the centerpiece position throughout the bridge. The lyrics are reintroduced in a climactic duet that walks the track out. As the boom from Gramling’s keys slow and lesson Chapman and Watters draw the end out in a passionate melodramatic cadence.

“The Beast” is an unapologetic look at one’s own part in a broken relationship. To blame the other is common and simple, but to acknowledge what defects lie on your side, what has been done here, is a feature of honesty and humility. “I cannot be an anchor or harbor at sea / a yoke that is heavy is me / a burden, a beast,” cryptically describes what it is like to be the one who clings and holds someone back.

Coyol will release six tracks, one at a time until September 6th, when the album will officially be released in full. “The Beast” is the third installment of the album to come.