For a small subcategory of music, alt-country has some very talented acts within its reach. Wilco, Okkervil River and Minus 5 are all predecessors to Holopaw's new "Quit +/- Fight" album, which is a solid addition to the genre.
Their new album excels far beyond their 2003 self-titled debut, venturing into new territory that sees their music taking on a more gentle approach, even with subject matter that may not be.
"Ghosties" initially resembles a choral work, and then turns into a soft, country song about nostalgia and all the "little ghosts" that haunt us in our memories.
The album is embellished with computer-generated sounds and synths in the vein of The Postal Service's "Give Up." The use of these sounds function to give the songs an airy, sensitive quality. Traditionally, musicians use such sounds to communicate a sense of cold detachment.
The near-falsetto of "Curious" demonstrates the talent of lead singer John Orth and is paramount to all other tracks in terms of its ability to create an emotional connection with the listener.
Occasionally, his lyrics become obscured, and his voice functions as another layer of sound.
A faster song, "3-shy cubs," has a rhythm section of handclaps, electronic clicks and synths with an upbeat tempo that sets it apart from the rest of the songs. This is one of the many pieces that show the multitude of directions the band has tread and mastered.
One has to wonder if the surprising popularity of The Postal Service affected Holopaw's decision to include such a heavy electronic element. It certainly adds a quality to their music, but at times, more of Orth's voice and less electronic sounds would have been a better musical equation.
Holopaw has been exceedingly successful in translating the variety of human experience in their music. Using a variety of techniques, it complements their various song topics perfectly. Holopaw's musical experimentation is an exciting artistic adventure that successfully jaunts into relatively unknown musical territory.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
