Walking Field

One might never suspect that Peals’ pedigree might involve a hard-driving punk band (Double Dagger’s Bruce Willen) and a boisterous, postpunk band with a flare for drama (Future Islands’ William Cashion). Walking Field is one of the prettiest, most pastoral records to come out of the indie scene in recent years and, lacking any hint of vocals, bass, or even drums (okay, there's the faintest bit of percussion). Glistening, clean guitar notes, vaporous beds of electronics, and specters of toy piano, bells, and chimes aren't exactly what one would think members of the two aforementioned bands would be favoring for a side project. Or cellos, which are bowed on the beautifully somber “Pendelles,” a song that's both remarkably meditative and inspiring. “Falling Leaf” floats and tangos on wisps of fingerpicked guitar before swelling into a modestly grand keyboard coda, while “Believers” is all cool ambient grays and twilight blues. “Tiptoes in the Parlor” is a chirping, sweet showcase for more deft fretwork. Walking Field will delight fans of everyone from Rachel’s to Galaxie 500 and Gem Club.