Be Here Instead
Okrahoma/Thirty Tigers, 2021
8/10
The singer-songwriter and guitarist Parker Millsap takes on an adventurous idea for this 5th album, where him and his band recorded the album studio live, and utilized pedal effects, keys and drum machines across the sometimes sparse and other times firm dynamics.
“Rolling” starts the listen with Millsap’s soulful pipes guiding the curious brand of Americana that’s got plenty of retro flavor amid the organ, and “The Real Thing” follows with a folk-rock approach as Millsap’s soaring pipes and intricate acoustic guitar highlight his vivid storytelling that takes help from Erin Rae’s pipes.
In the middle, “In Between” offers a bare intimacy that’s quite poetic, while “Dammit” builds into a cathartic rocker that’s almost gospel rooted in its powerful climate. “Now, Here”, one of the best tracks, then uses a strategic drum machine to help cultivate a dreamy landscape of warmth and mystery.
Near the end, “Always” takes us back to the ‘70s with its laid back delivery and smooth textures, and “Being Alive” exits the listen with a soft, buzzing guitar alongside the introspective feel to the cautious finisher.
An artist who is constantly evolving, Millsap still anchors his tunes in folk and Americana sensibilities, and the addition of light fuzz, moments of pop, and subtle grooves makes for an unpredictable and charming effort.
Travels well with: Andrew Combs- Ideal Man; Steve Earle & The Dukes- Ghosts Of West Virginia