The Digital Age Of Rome
Normaltown, 2021
8/10
Listen to The Digital Age Of Rome
The always exceptional T. Hardy Morris had an albums worth of demos to flesh out in early 2020, but when the pandemic hit he had to rethink the entire process and ultimately started over to pen an album that reflects these uncomfortable times.
“DirtRocker” starts the listen with a hazy and melodic formula that brings country and lo-fi ideas into a very distinct southern glam approach, and “New New New… Next Next Next” follows with a warm folk quality entering the steel guitar bareness that also embraces pop sensibilities.
Halfway through, “Shopping Center Sunsets” brings twang to the dreamy climate that’s got a firm beat and much beauty, while “Down & Out”, one of the album highlights, puts a playful spin on indie-rock with smooth singing alongside dynamic musicianship from the many players present. “First World Problems”, another exceptional tune, then gets a bit more firm with strong drumming amid thicker guitars in an alt-rock flavored landscape.
Close to the end, “I Assure You (an ode)” presents strategic keys from the producer Adam Landry alongside the romantic atmosphere, and “Just Pretend Everything Is Fine” exits the listen with snappy, frisky garage rock influences that bounce playfully and memorably.
Morris brought in Brad Morgan (Drive-By Truckers), Faye Webster, and Shelly Colvin, among others, for the effort, and together it makes for his most personal and daring release to date, where he captures the mood of the unstable country with his inimitable brand of dream-pop.
Travels well with: Alex Chilton And Hi Rhythm Section- Boogie Shoes: Live On Beale Street; Acid Dad- Acid Dad