Scott Songs Vol. II
Self-Released, 2020
9/10
Though Scott Garred might not be a name you’ll immediately recognize, you may have heard of his former bands, Silver Scooter (1995-2001) and Super XX Man (1995-2015). These days, Garred works in the area of music therapy in hospitals and prisons, and on this 3rd solo album he brings his professional life into his vast songwriting talent on the appropriately titled Scott Songs Vol. II.
“Dementia/Blues” starts the listen with warm and intricate acoustic guitar as Garred’s soft, inviting vocals enter the bare, pretty atmosphere that carries on the grand traditional of timeless folk music, and “Now Do You Believe” follows with a darker spirit as gentle glockenspiel enters the mysterious atmosphere where backing vocals from Kelly Atkins add much to the appeal.
Halfway through, “Day Without Contact” recruits precise guitar picking in a nearly lullaby like presence, while “AIOU” offers a soothing 5 minutes of melodic and playful instrumentation. “When Your Idols Are Through” then recruits vivid storytelling in a poetic delivery of calm keys and light guitar flourishes.
Close to the end, “Make You Whole Again” unfolds with sublime beauty where hushed backing vocals make an indelible mark, and “He Was Gone”, one of the quickest tunes. exits the listen with an immediate sing-along quality to a not so uplifting but very real story about mental health.
There certainly aren’t many albums out there that try to understand the inner workings of a mass shooter or a person living with dementia, but Garred’s decade and a half of working in mental health puts him in a unique position to ponder as he creates honest and articulate indie-folk that stands out in a very crowded genre.
Travels well with: Owen- New Leaves; Rocky Votolato- Makers