Olly Olly
Thirty Tigers, 2022
9/10
Andy Baxter and Kyle Jahnke, i.e. Penny & Sparrow, sure have come a long way since their inception in 2011, and this 7th album sees the pair further exploring their gentle song craft as Jahnke was holed up in his new home in Waco, Texas playing with ideas, while Baxter was working on songs in Alabama.
“Adeline” starts the listen with much warmth and intimacy, as strong attention to mood unfolds amid the expressive singing and precise acoustic guitar, and “Alabama Haint” follows with a very poetic approach that emits much beauty amid the dreamy climate.
Further into the listen, “Cheyenne” offers a soulful and elegant display of stirring song craft, while “Lacuna” makes great use of piano and strings in the gorgeous landscape. “Voodoo”, one of the album’s best, then showcases soaring falsetto alongside radiant pedal steel and strategic drumming.
Nearing the end, the fuller “Gogogo” is suited for the dance floor with its unique pop energy, and “Get Along” exits the listen with an emotive and orchestral backdrop that is quite cathartic while also retreating to vulnerable ebbs, too.
As always, the songwriting and lyricism present is just so well thought out and articulate. The chemistry between the pair is nothing short of sublime, and the themes of doubt, desire and regret are met with rich, groove filled, chamber moments that just might be Penny & Sparrow’s best work to date.
Travels well with: Lowland Hum- At Home; Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors- Good Light