Album Reviews

‘Oh shit, where did these guys come from?’ is what I was thinking two minutes into “Breaks In The Sun”. Well, Portland, Oregon apparently even though that wasn’t what I was referring to with that question. ‘How come I never heard about these guys before’ and ‘surely this is not a debut’ were two more remarks I uttered while checking out this band’s album.

Turns out that “Breaks In The Sun” is indeed not their debut which I somehow missed out on. So I’m a bit late with becoming a fan but I’m making up for lost time and already sent a basket of chocolate chip cookies their way (made ‘em myself)! I always do that when a band has me hooked right from the start of the album all the way until the end.

Opener “Sunken Eyes” is a very mellow piano meets acoustic guitar affair that you can’t help but love. It is followed by “I’m Sure It Helps”, a track that pays tribute to Neil Young. Hell, it even sounds more Neil Young than the good man himself on his last album.

It’s not just the first two songs that are great though… Weinland’s voice is pleasant, the melodies are top notch, the atmosphere is mellow and is further enhanced by the use of dobro, mandolin, lap steel and melodica. Oh, and they whip out the loud guitars in all the right places!

Make sure to check this one out! After all having quit their jobs last year to focus on the band, I have the feeling these guys can use your support.