Atoms Form
Blackbird, 2022
9/10
The long running Los Angeles rockers Truth & Salvage Co. return with 14 new tracks, where their heartfelt and gorgeous singing illuminates folk, country, Americana and rock’n’roll ideas amid their exciting version of roots rock.
“Charm City” starts the listen with a dense atmosphere that’s even a bit cosmic, where precise drums complement the swirling guitars, and “24 Hours” follows with Brian Wright’s guest banjo alongside Lissie’s soulful voice adding much allure to the cautious climate.
Elsewhere, “Silver Lining” thumps with an infectious energy that benefits from soaring vocals in the loud roots rock, while “Bird On A Wing” finds a more lush play to reside, as both grit and melody enter the lovely textures.
Close to the end, the stylish and dance floor friendly “Island” radiates both playfulness and beauty, and “Alive” exits with an eloquent intimacy that burns slow, powerfully and with much warmth.
The core of the band consists of Adam Grace (organ, keys), Tim Jones (guitar, vocals), Scott Kinnebrew (guitar, vocals), Bill Smith (drums, vocals) and Walker Young (piano, vocals), and they bring in a few contributors as well. Somewhat of a comeback album after being on a hiatus for years, Atoms Form shows the band at a career high, where clearly a lot of work went into each memorable and absorbing tune.
Travels well with: Jeffrey Halford And The Healers- Soul Crusade; Derek Hoke- Electric Mountain