Everything We Thought We Wanted
Blackbird, 2025
9/10
Listen to Everything We Thought We Wanted
The Los Angeles outfit The Far West are back with a 3rd album, and it explores hope, heartbreak, memory and survival via their diverse formula.
The swift and melodic “See For Yourself” opens with Lee Briante’s rhythm guitar and vocals guiding the upbeat mood and Michael Whiteside’s glowing keys, and “Joshua Tree” follows with a calmer atmosphere, where Aaron Bakker’s warm acoustic guitar suits the expressive storytelling and intimate climate.
Further along, “Soft Place To Land” is strong on ambience thanks to hazy guitar and Brian Bachman’s strategic drumming, while “Happy Now” benefits from a punchy and playful spirit courtesy of Robert Black’s frisky bass amid the energetic and rootsy appeal.
Landing close to the end, “Better Days” recruits well timed harmonica that complements the grooves and R&B nods, and “Over The Hill” exits rich, intimate and even flirts with twang.
A sonically eclectic outing that can bring to mind Wilco, Grandaddy, ELO or John Prine, the legendary Dave Alvin even plays on this excellent record that borrows from folk, country, soul, psych and ‘70s rock.
Travels well with: KP Hawthorn- Til The Glitter End; Shane Alexander- Forever Songs