Cowboys & Aliens
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
An outfit spearheaded by Monica Uhm, as Trio Of Awesuhm the New York songstress brings a retro spirit to her modern, punchy influences of pop and rock.
“Last Night” starts the listen with a warm, memorable spirit of acoustic guitars, keys and, most importantly, soothing vocals from Ohm, and “Storyline” follows with plenty of rhythm and subtle power, as well as funk nods.
Elsewhere, “Begging The Radio” is gorgeous country-pop song with Uhm’s voice soaring high, while “Just Hurting” takes a contemplative turn into cautious territory.
The back half of the listen offers us the soft keys, playful melodies, orchestral strings, harmonica and Americana shuffling of “After The Show”, and the multifaceted “Adios”, where some mystery enters the diverse instrumentation that touches on jazz. The album ends on “Mighty Waters”, which is a lively exit with string acrobatics and a pace that will get your body moving.
An accomplished listen that covers folk, alt-rock, country, and many others, Uhms and her proficient band make Cowboys & Aliens a delightful experience that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Travels well with: The Cranberries- Everyone Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?; Aimee Man- I’m With Stupid