Mennonite Rock

posted in: Artist Features • Rock

Glen Yoder’s music is unexpected only when you put it in the context of his upbringing. Born in Amish country, the singer-songwriter’s humble upbringing may not have been exactly conducive to electro-rock. But that simple, organic culture is one that’s found its way into Yoder’s music. Daughter of Zion is ambient indie rock ”wiry guitars and synths entwining around Yoder’s airy vocals. The complex, rhythmic, and stylish arrangements here make Yoder’s soothing voice stand out if only for its low-key simplicity. Likewise, the spacious Hollywood merges a lapping acoustic guitar with waves of electronic textures to create sorrowful electro-pop a la Flaming Lips. But all hope is not lost, as the plucky Greenland makes known. A marching beat, chugging electric guitar and laptop ether equals an uplifting indie pop gem. As influential as his years in Amish country may have been, be glad Yoder moved on and found an outlet (literally) for his music.