Description
Pell Mell – Flow – Cassette
SST Records 278
Flow is an instrumental rock album by the band Pell Mell, released in 1991 on the SST Records label. Pell Mell is known for their unique blend of post-rock, surf rock, and krautrock-inspired instrumentals, often creating expansive, mood-driven soundscapes with a minimalist yet melodic edge.
Flow is considered one of Pell Mell’s standout works, showcasing their talent for crafting evocative instrumental tracks that build atmosphere and tension without relying on vocals. Their music has often been compared to early Tortoise, The Ventures, and Neu!, blending clean guitar tones, rhythmic grooves, and experimental textures.
The band was part of a 90s instrumental rock movement that laid the groundwork for what would later be called post-rock. While they remained somewhat under the radar commercially, Pell Mell has a cult following and is respected for their influence on the genre.
Track Highlights from Flow:
Nothing Lies Still Long
Blacktop
Mothball
Tollgate
Par Avion
These tracks feature driving, hypnotic rhythms, often with a cinematic feel, making Flow a go-to album for fans of instrumental journeys.
Pell Mell included Steve Fisk, a well-known producer and keyboardist who has worked with bands like Nirvana, Screaming Trees, and Unwound. After “Flow”, Pell Mell signed to Matador Records and released “Interstate” in 1995, which brought them broader recognition.
