Despair & Ecstasy
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The Minneapolis artist Fred Argir brings his 3 decades of recording and performing experience to these dozen new tunes where he plays every instrument thanks to his DIY approach to rock.
“Jumper” starts the listen with a stylish atmosphere, as soaring guitars and crisp drumming sounds enter the vocally expressive and ominous moments, and “Lay Me Down” follows with both grit and melody guiding the busy, textured rock climate.
Further on, the soulful backing vocals of “The Misunderstood” and searing guitars complement the talk/singing that’s a bit cryptic, while “Bloodlines” uses bouncy bass and a hypnotic tone for the album’s best, which alternates between a calmer haze and thicker bouts of creativity.
Deeper still, the buzzing tone of the dreamy “Leave A Trace” hints at prog-rock nods, and “Triage” exits the listen with both ruggedness and beauty aglow in the dynamic and tense finish.
Argir is now 7 albums deep into an impressive solo career, and his ability to navigate so precisely around many instruments and his diverse approach to rock’n’roll makes Despair & Ecstasy essential for the longtime fan and a great starting point for the first time listener.
Travels well with: Fred Argir- Still Alive; Hemisphere- Unity