Time
Blué Elan, 2020
9/10
The Southern California residents Mustangs Of The West don’t disappoint on this debut album, where 3 and 4 part harmonies are used expertly across Americana, country and rock sounds that are both nostalgic and modern.
The album leads with “Long Gone Down The Road”, where soft and sweet vocals from Suzanna Spring align with breezy melodies from the band, and “How Blue”, the first single, offers an infectious hook amid a jangly and retro setting where Aubrey Richmond’s violin leaves an indelible mark.
Near the middle, “Potter’s Field” allows Spring’s vocals to soar high in the contemplative and emotive atmosphere, while “Dancing On The Moon” brings the listen into ballad territory with gorgeous musicianship, particularly with the strings. “Time”, the album’s best, then benefits greatly from Rusty Young’s pedal steel in the lush and textured environment.
Near the end, “This Is Me Leaving” is timeless, heartfelt country sounds that are instantly memorable and “Seven Summers” ends the listen soft and agile with an acoustic guitar supporting the pretty execution.
Originally called Mustangs, these talented women made quite an impression in the ‘80s and ‘90s when they were very much a part of the Los Angeles cow punk scene, and here they return with 3 original members, basically picking up where they left off in the ‘90s. Thirty years is a long time to anticipate a first album but in this case it was worth the wait.
Travels well with: Rosie Flores- Working Girls Guitar; Patty Griffin- American Kid