Notions
BMG, 2022
9/10
The debut album from the singer-songwriter/guitarist Dorota Szuta, the multi-instrumentalist Stelth Ulvang (of The Lumineers) and percussionist Ryan Dobrowski (of Blind Pilot), as Heavy Gus the trio are largely on the softer side of the equation, but also don’t shy away from grunge flavored, louder moments, too.
“Dinner For Breakfast” starts the listen with a very pretty, dreamy display of atmospheric indie-rock that’s quite stirring, and “Weird Sad Symbol” follows with a thicker, buzzing display that’s full of throbbing and thumping alt-rock ideas.
“Still To Be” occupies the middle spot, and showcases bouncy bass lines alongside Szuta’s expressive and charming pipes, while “Trees” is quite bare in its poetic nature that fits in nicely with today’s version of indie-folk.
Close to the end, “Paracosm” finds itself in a bit of haze that’s quite absorbing, and “Scattered” exits the listen with soulful singing and an orchestral spirit that complements the harmonies perfectly.
An extremely well done first effort, Heavy Gus touch on desert rock, ‘90s alt-rock, sun soaked indie-rock and many other ideas, and it’s all executed with much heart, sincerity and memorableness.
Travels well with: The Lumineers- The Lumineers; Charming Disaster- Our Lady Of Radium