I'd meant this to be a review of the debut self-titled album of The Shell, (one of) the musical projects of Expert Sleeper's Andrew Ostler. As I was writing listening to the album and working on the review, lo and behold, The Shell released a live version of the album, Live at The Voodoo Rooms. While the studio album is polished and excellent, the live album (and accompanying video) pushes the heights of The Shell even further, including the beautiful “Distant Line”, a song not found on the studio version.
The Shell are quite a power trio. Ostler’s forlorn sax-through-a-pedal-board works on so many levels, creating a moody ambience that sometimes wails, sometimes cries plaintively, and sometimes throbs, while drummer Leigh Chorlton adds precise and tasteful playing. Simon Kirby's chops on his modular setup are stellar; adding ambiance and intrigue (who doesn’t love intrigue?!) with the three of them blending seamlessly to create a cohesive and eclectic sound, a tight vision that's all hairpin turns in slo-mo with no straightaways. The Shell's mix of free jazz, ambient stylings, and repeated motifs leaves you wanting more with either album. I think the trio's music would travel exceptionally well, with those who love Miles, Mehldau, Eno or Radiohead fully appreciating this. I for one, would love to see The Shell in a small dimly-lit club—seated of course—with their sounds filling up the room until the velvety walls are soaked in it. 

Expert Sleepers