One
Self-Released, 2018
8/10
The Nashville outfit Birdtalker don’t disappoint on this debut album, where the quintet’s compelling formula of Americana, folk and pop come together in creative and often slow burning ways.
The album starts with the warm keys, crisp drums, agile bass lines and graceful vocals of “Ankle Bone”, and “Nothing’s Right” continues the mood with strummed acoustic guitars amid a soothing and timeless folk approach.
Further on, “Outside The Lines” moves emotively, with gorgeous dual gender vocals in a bare atmosphere, while “Autodomesticated Animal” picks up the pace with a fuller display of textured, lush beauty. “Be Where You Are”, one of the album highlights, then flows with calm melodies and expressive vocals.
Near the end, “Medea” recruits strategic strings for a nearly gospel like display of subdued instrumentation, and the title track exits the listen tense with subtle power alongside the two part harmonies.
Spearheaded by guitarist/vocalist Zack Green and his wife, keyboardist/vocalist Dani Green, this first album pairs strong, insightful lyricism with rich, stirring melodies and delicate song craft that make One an excellent starting point for a band with much potential.
Travels well with: Novo Amor- Birthplace; Tall Heights- Neptune