You Must Change Your Life
Nine Mile, 2023
9/10
Listen to You Must Change Your Life
The husband and wife duo of David Wax and Suz Slezak, as David Wax Museum the pair birth a unique brand of ‘Mexo-Americana’ song craft that, on this 9th album, recruits pop influences and Motown nods that are much appreciated.
The title track opens with flowing keys, where Wax’s dreamy voice hits some pretty high notes in the quirky climate, and “Best Lover” follows with more emphasis on acoustic guitar, as the couple harmonize amid crisp drums and sweet melodies.
In the middle, the intimate “Desire” carries a warm, cinematic quality, while “Only Ones Awake”, the best tune present, is a busy and buzzing multi-faceted folk rocker that’s bright amid the contagious energy.
Close to the end, the well timed brass and synth bouts of “Summer Wrapped In Gold” illustrates just how diverse the two can be, and “Back In Mexico” exits with a swift, cultured delivery that’s textured precisely and with much charm and intrigue.
This was nearly the last album from the couple, as Wax collapsed in late 2022 and endured heart catheterization. Thinking he was on death bed, he found comfort in knowing that this record was out in the world and you can see why. It’s obvious a lot of work went into the listen, and the skilled use of synth, fiddle, saxophone and plenty of other noisemakers help make for a highly atypical and memorable experience.
Travels well with: The Felice Brothers- From Dreams To Dust; Suz Slezak- Our Wings May Be Featherless