What does it sound like?:
A natural successor to the band’s debut Lonesome Dreams, this second album doesn’t change the template too much, although it’s a bit less of an immediate delight and takes a few listens before it starts to entrance. And entrance it certainly does, with a spacey, echoey twangsome feel that wouldn’t be out of place on a David Lynch film soundtrack. It has that lush rockabilly vibe and dark lyrical content that conjures up nights at the Roadhouse or cherry pie at the Double R diner. There’s also a bit of The War On Drugs going on here too, although you might occasionally wish the ethereal lightness would give way to the kind of guitar workouts that made Lost In The Dream everyone’s favourite album of last year. Best songs? There isn’t a duffer here really; close your eyes, soak it all up and let it beguile you. Best of the year so far.
What does it all *mean*?
“Where they’re from, there’s always music in the air”. The band turned their recording studio into the Twin Peaks red room in order to record Strange Trails.
Goes well with…
A damn fine cup of coffee.
Release Date:
Might suit people who like…
The War On Drugs, Twin Peaks and Chris Isaak, but not necessarily in that order.
niallb says
It’s completely gorgeous. This week saw this and the new Josh Rouse album come out. Perfect partners, for me. I thought their first album was terrific and you always worry that they can’t maintain the quality. No such concerns here. It is joyous – even more joyful than the first. This (and the JR album) will be my summer soundtrack.
Tiggerlion says
The War On Drugs sank in my affections as the year wore on. However, bunglie, you make this sound a far better prospect. I may well give it a punt.