Afflatus
Good, 2021
8/10
If you’re like me, you enjoy a covers record as much as anyone, but, of course, tracking one down is often easier said than done. Well, the Dallas residents The Polyphonic Spree have filled that void for us, where legends like The Rolling Stones, The Association and many others are reworked in their inimitable, choral rock vision.
“Don’t Change”, the best INXS tune, starts the listen and buzzes firmly as the charged and melodic delivery does justice to the original with much playfulness, and “You Put My Love Out The Door”, by Daniel Johnston, brings ‘70s nods the soulful, soft rocker.
Elsewhere, “Run To Me” (Bee Gees) offers a lush and retro-pop climate that’s quite dreamy, while “The Porpoise Song” embraces a busy approach of textured nods to symphonic rock that few others could replicate. “Could It Be Magic”, a Barry Manilow original, then recruits firm keys amid the orchestral, chamber filled setting.
Closer to the end, “Let’Em In” relies on piano and drums to help illuminate the cautious yet adventurous Wings tune that even features a whistle solo, and “The Spirit Of Radio” places psychedelic nods into The Rush classic that’s as quirky as it is nostalgic.
A precursor to an album of new material- their first since 2013- which will arrive later this year, if Afflatus is any indication, Tim DeLaughter and company just might be bringing us a career highlight very soon, as their many vocalists, strings and brass are working together in exciting, innovative ways.
Travels well with: Rogue Wave- Nightingale Floors; The Flaming Lips- King’s Mouth Music And Songs