Monarchs Of The Spukhaus
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
Listen to Monarchs Of The Spukhaus
The singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist John Amadon is now 5 albums deep, and his throwback pop and rock formula unfolds here across a dozen tracks where he takes help from Scott McPherson (drums), Paul Brainard (pedal steel, vibrato guitar) and William Slater (piano).
Amadon starts the listen with the retro-folk melodies of “Poor Teresa”, where crisp drumming and jangly guitars make an immediate impression, and “Entering A Northwest Town” follows with a calmer pace of keys, soft vocals and a dreaminess that’s full of beauty and breeziness.
Further down the line, “Harvest The Clones” recruits a nostalgic pop-rock spirit amid intricate guitar playing, while “Lighthouse Keeper” is a buzzing and busy folk rocker that’s quite in line with today’s indie-rock scene. “Parable Of The Lone Mare”, one of the record’s best, then emits a thicker display, where psychedelic nods are appreciated alongside the firm rock’n’roll.
Approaching the end, “To Get Back Home” is a folksy strummer that touches on Americana in its poetic delivery, and “Here You Are” exits with a cautious, eloquent and heartfelt take on Amadon’s brand of pop.
Amadon mixed and recorded the album, a first for him, and he did a great job documenting his timeless song craft. An artist who doesn’t spend much time playing shows or promoting his work, this humble body of work speaks for itself and radiates much charm and memorableness.
Travels well with: Reuben And The Dark- un/love; Birdtalker- One