The second full-length project from American rock/cosmic country/psychedelic folk singer, songwriter and producer James Wallace is a catchy, but very easy listen oddball odyssey, a cinematic psych folk opera. It’s about someone who finds themselves incapable of coping with a new uncertain reality that followed a near death experience. Under a spell of mixed wisdom by several “trickster guides” hailing from the future, this confused person leaps back into the world of the dead only to spend a hero’s journey climbing out, returning to this strange existence of present day America. Out last year in digital format, it’s now in full physical release, but on YouTube it comes with some wonderful animations.
Standout upbeat track is the metaphysical, spiritually upbeat Sometimes Darkness/Railroad. Opening track Muddy Water meanwhile ambles along at its own surefooted, walking pace, while the skipping along Old Swingin’ Bell somehow combines an echo of Marc Bolan with old music hall and country. For an album about seeking oneself, this is an album that is trips along very happily, with foot-tapping joy. Did Ya Know Him? has a reggae feel, Common Void has echoes of latter day Johnny Cash, while Don’t Feel Bad About Being Alive, has a rockin’ Bob Dylan flavour. Night Walking, Alone has something of solo-era John Lennon about it and Atom Bomb has a rockabilly Beach Boys swing that will bring almost any listener to their feet and closing track Power is slow gospel rock. Overall, not just a pleasingly seemless fusion of various genres, but also very enjoyable journey indeed. Out on Mama Bird Recording Co.
Feel free to also check out our favourite albums of 2020 here:
Fiona Apple to Lianne La Havas to Yves Tumor: favourite albums of 2020 – Part 1
Agnes Obel to Bob Dylan, Phoebe Bridgers to Sault: favourite albums of 2020 – Part 2
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