A powerful ensemble stretches its legs and strides into its auspicious future. Shy Beast has introduced itself and offered its complex and appealing music over the past year, but now, in “My Stride,” it demonstrates its power. It is clear how the group appeals to many with its various themes and open atmospheres of possibility. Shy Beast hails from Austin but plays to the entire world. The music showcases Mariclaire Glaeser’s immense vocal range and tones of diamond clarity. Her voice is feminine but also liberated and absolutely commanding of the songs. The guitars of David Tenczar and Andrew Bennett are undeterred in growing the forest of melodies in which Glaeser sings. Drew Silverman’s unmistakable drumming guides us through the musical abundance and back again, all hits, no misses. Farther down in the sonic underworld, Jay Cesak’s bass rhythms don’t wait for verses, choruses or instrumental breaks. They continue to call until we become the monster and dance with the beast. Newcomers to Shy Beast’s music may be assured that yes, the band plays electro-pop, but the boundaries of that are sure to be re-drawn with this new creature entering the musical fray.

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