Low Hanging Stars
Blackbird, 2024
9/10
The alt-country artist David Serby returns with his first new collection of songs in a decade, and he’s got Dale Daniel, Gregory Goaz, Darice Bailey and Carl Byron along for the 10 tracks.
“Fishtail Cadillac” starts the listen with plenty of energy, where Daniel’s thumping drums and Bailey’s key acrobatics suit Serby’s smooth voice, and “Lonely Motel Days” follows with Serby’s breezy guitar amid the playful bass from Goaz.
At the halfway point, “She Ain’t Changed At All” showcases the tuneful rhythm section in a slightly more intimate delivery, while “Why Leave Los Angeles” is a thick and frisky moment of lively country rock that’s ready for the dance floor.
Further still, “Trying To Get To Encinitas” showcases Serby’s meticulous guitar and Byron’s well timed accordion thanks to the harmonic album highlight, and “Is It Lonely In Here” exits with a dreamy mood and plenty of careful versus busy song craft.
Serby has occupied an influential spot in the Los Angeles alt-country scene, and this 6th album embraces ruggedness, vintage rock’n’roll, rootsy moments and shuffling fun that’s immediately memorable.
Travels well with: Jon Byrd- All Your Mistakes; Grant Langston- aLAbama