This album is definitely a situation where less would be more. There are some strong tracks here. There are also some songs that don’t stand up as well. I think that if those “less than” songs had been removed, this would be quite a strong album. This generally lands in a mellow rock sort of zone. There is definitely some variation built into that.
This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) form in Music Street Journal: 2025 Volume 3. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2025.
Track by Track Review
M.I.A.
Starting rhythmically, this cut has roots rock and a bit of an indie vibe. This is kind of quirky and edgy. It still has some classic rock leanings, though.
Shoulders
There is a soulful, vocal dominated vibe at play on this tune. It’s an intriguing tune and does include some cool guitar work.
River Runs
I really love the acoustic guitar based arrangement on this track. The cut has a cool groove and vibe to it. It’s actually one of my favorites here. It seems to have some classic 1970s vibes to it.
Stockholm Syndrome
More energized and rocking, this one doesn’t work as well for me. It has a bit of a bouncy alternative rock vibe to it.
When I Was 13
This one leans more toward folk music territory, but it’s really alternative rock. I don’t think it works as well as some of the music here does.
Crow
Stripped back and mellower as it gets underway, there are electrified sections, but that more sparse arrangement holds a lot of the track. This feels a little odd for some reason. There is a really strange short section late in the song, too.
Till It Thaws
This has some artsy angles along with the standard alternative fare we have heard throughout.
Phantoms In The Mist
There is a mellow rock vibe to this. The cut is actually one of the most effective things here, but it gets a little lost amongst so much music.
Over Now
The keyboards on this bring some variety. This mellower tune has an artsy vibe to it. It’s another classy song. It’s definitely a highlight of the set.
Out Here
There is a bouncy alternative pop styled sound to this cut. I don’t think it’s as effective as the last couple songs were.
Drive to Canada
The voice processing on this rally completely trashes this track for me. This is more of an electronic track that might work better if the vocals were more natural.
Stars
From the worst track on the disc to one of the best. This mellower tune has almost a Simon and Garfunkel vibe to it. It is definitely a standout for me.
Staying In Line
More of a folk rock song, this is another highlight of the set.
Flatlander
Alternative rock with some folky vibes is on the agenda here. This is another stronger cut.
