Local Nomad
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
This 2nd EP from Michael Desmond, aka Local Nomad, has the multi-instrumentalist handling all noisemakers but drums as his universally enjoyable song craft makes an immediate impression.
“Love Is Gone” starts the listen with soulful singing and a dance-friendly atmosphere that takes nods to earlier decades with plenty of stylish and energetic beats, and “Gates” continues with a more cautious approach that’s very much in tune with today’s pop, where a firm beat and precise musicianship highlight the mood.
The back half follows a similar path, including the bright and highly melodic “Young Vampires”, which also dips into quieter moments of playfulness, while “Summertime” uses keys strategically amid a soaring atmosphere that indeed deserves to be played loudly during the summer months.
Desmond cut his teeth playing in Gabriel The Marine, and he takes that experience and adds ‘70s nods to this very well executed sophomore effort that draws similarities to artists as varied as Phil Collins and Tears For Fears.
Travels well with: Kylie Odetta- Roots & Petals; Ronny Morris- Sweet Silence