My Buzzbin Magazine Article:

I just want it to be known, buzzbinmagazine.com screwed up with the credits to my article. Apparently they believe somebody else wrote it. I'm going to talk to them about it asap.

Start drinking those Pina Coladas and eating handfuls of psychedelics because Morning Bell has crafted a damn good album that mixes Mai Tai warmth with groovy escapism. Through the Belly of the Sea makes Sponge Bob Square Pants look like a fucking pussy.
Through the Belly is a concept album based on those “Choose-Your-Own-Adventure” books everybody reads as a kid. It’s interesting. Each track tells a bit of a narrative while you listen. Unfortunately, the concept feels loose and doesn’t bring much to the table other than an interesting marketing ploy. The concept is easy to forget.
What is lacking in terms of concept is forgiven once the album plays a few times in your stereo. I found myself lulled by the mellow melodies anchored by nebulous guitar work and jazzy drumming. It feels as if Morning Bell is playing behind aquarium glass with sharks singing harmonies and sunfish tossing tightly rolled joints on the stage. Imagine Roger Waters performing The Little Mermaid soundtrack. Yes, I’m serious. In fact, I would not be surprised if Through the Belly synced nicely to The Little Mermaid. I’m sure every stoner reading this will try.
The album is diverse. A poppy burst like the opening track “The Speed of God” sits beside more cerebral tracks like “The Octopus Walks Across the Coral” and “Waiting on Sleep”. In addition, we are treated to occasional rocky riffs and instrumentals, which make Through the Belly of the Ocean unique and enjoying experience. The real gem of the album is an epic track titled “Faster than Eagles, Stronger than Lions”, a truly rocking song with a playful bass line and hard riffs that contrast to the rest of the album’s more relaxed approach. “Faster than Eagles, Stronger than Lions” sticks out, whether that’s good or bad isn’t quite clear. What is clear however is the attention to detail in each track. The album is full of discovery; each track is peppered with little bubbly effects that enhance the Caribbean/Lets just all sit down and drink on the beach feeling.
Over all, it’s eclectic and progressive and leaves the listener feeling intrigued. Through the Belly of the Sea is a testament to Morning Bell’s future as kings of indy-progressive-pop-rock. I highly recommend everybody pick up this album and take a day trip to the aquarium. It will be a surreal experience. I promise.