Shine
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
A duo comprised of Chelsea Dawn (vocals and drums) and Dan Silver (guitar and synth), as Moon the pair cultivate a very unique version of indie-rock, where their Southern California status is firmly embedded into a varied and inviting formula that allows their respective talents to be illuminated in spades.
The title track starts the listen with hand clapping fun as a gospel influence enters the busy and beat friendly version of soulful folk-rock, and “Never Cross Me” follows with an electronic angle to the playful and buzzing climate where Dawn’s vocals soar and the Budapest Symphonic Scoring Orchestra contributes much elegance.
“Sweetest Magic” occupies the middle spot and offers a calmer landscape of fluid percussive sounds as Dawn’s powerful pipes are both expressive and inviting in the stylish version of rock, while “Down By The Water” moves cautiously amid a dreamy quality that is so well executed, it alone is worth the price of admission. “My Oh My (I’ll Take You Home)” then exits the listen with a reflective quality as an orchestral backdrop complements the pensive mood.
Silver, a full time producer, highlights the tunes so precisely here, as Moon’s version of desert rock unfolds with an unpredictable and easily enjoyable 5 songs that ends far too soon. Thankfully, repeated plays settle in quite nicely.
Travels well with: The Rough & Tumble- We’re Only Family If You Say So; Zoe Fitzgerald Carter- Waterlines