Do we make mistakes or do mistakes make us? I am not going to get metaphysical, don’t worry, but I am trying to emphasize the importance of occasional fail for the progress of artistry. There are many examples of musicans who had to go through their blue period in order to reach a higher quality. I am not going to drop names, but I could If you want me to. I think this review will be sufficient.
After the unsuccessful experiment with the previous album …And The Star Power, creative duo Sam France and Jonathan Rado are coming back with a solid fourth studio album released under Jagjaguwar label. What captures attention from the start are beautifully orchestrated arrangements, for which we should be thankful to Troy Pollard and Matthew E. White who experimented with compositions played by a symphony orchestra.
The vocals remind me of Jagger, Lou Reed and Bowie. There are many references from Broadway musicals and 60s soul music. Bowie’s glam rock also clearly influenced the record that altogether spurs the feeling of nostalgia. Needless to say, all of these influences are put through the filter of psychedelic rock and indie pop, converging into an exciting modern album.
The most complex song on the record is the first single America that has a patient build up, and contains strong tempo variations. The strength of the sound produces strain of diverse emotions. The album opener Follow The Leader motivates with the verse Follow the leader, And the leader is you. I have read somewhere that this should be considered as a parallel to the immortal Aquarius from the Hair musical, which is not far from the truth. My personal favorite is Mrs.Adams, as it is absolutely genius, an amalgam of vintage and modern sound, with super catchy chorus.
Playing this record stimulates good feeelings, and sometimes that is all music should do. Overall, the newest album is not their best, but Hang represents an exceptional progress for Californian duo If we are comparing it with its predecessor.
