Stray Gods
Salamander, 2021
8/10
The duo of Liam McKahey and Davey Ray Moor, as CousteauX the pair match McKahey’s inimitable vocals with Moor’s multi-instrumental and songwriting skills for this sophomore album since their reboot in 2016.
“Cheap Perfume” gets the listen off to a very stylish, dark version of pop-rock that benefits from soulful singing, and “Karen Don’t Be Sad” follows with a calm, emotive display of mood focused sounds that embraces soft trumpet.
Approaching the middle, “Bloom Overture” flows with a cautious, orchestral quality that emits much beauty in its instrumental climate, while “When The Bloom Has Left The Rose” channels the bands inner Burt Bacharach amid much poetic, throwback ideas. “Praying For Rain” then picks up the pace with frisky keys, punchy drumming and well timed backing vocals that are complemented by an expressive delivery from McKahey.
“Hush Money” lands near the end, and recruits an ominous backdrop as plenty of atmosphere enters a rugged alt-rocker, and “In The Meantime” exits the listen with a superbly textured and timeless version of chamber pop that is so well done, it alone is worth the price of admission.
Originally called Cousteau, the McKahey and Moor achieved massive success in the late ‘90s and early 2000’s with a few very unique and well executed records. Now with a darker presence in their songwriting, the ‘X’ at the end of their names comes with an edgier demeanor that only adds more allure to their craft.
Travels well with: A Girl Called Eddy- Been Around; Lisa Gerrard & Jules Maxwell- Burn