The Better Way Back When
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
Listen to The Better Way Back When
The long running Canadian outfit Austin John start off 2021 on a very high note with this 4th album, where they reflect on better times and also make the best of our current, turbulent times across groove friendly rock tunes.
“Keep Looking” gets the album off to an impressive beginning with spirited organ, playful guitar work and some of the best singing to date from frontman/guitarist Todd Elsliger on the pensive yet punchy rocker, and “Indifference” follows with a quick pace of layered vocals, upbeat drumming and a very modern version of folk-rock.
There’s 9 tracks here, and each one shines in its own light, including the soaring female vocals of “Honeymoon”, where Elsliger’s rugged yet smooth pipes complement the playful piano, while “Somebody Else” displays strong acoustic guitar prowess on the bare setting. “Purple Tribute Song” then dives into soulful, funky territory where grooves arrive in spades as Elsliger and company tell a great story about Prince’s legacy.
Coming in near the end, “Neil” is a glorious piano led rocker that’s indebted to the past while still being very much a modern rocker, and “Listen” exits the listen with a pensive quality as a memorable dreaminess enters the well thought out finish to a career highlight album.
I trust that Austin John are well known in their hometown and draw massive crowds when they play, cause they possess a timeless knack for songwriting and deliver with immense skill on this easily enjoyable and very relatable record.
Travels well with: Steve Almaas- Everywhere You’ve Been; William The Conqueror- Maverick Thinker