Drunk Lil Guy
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
A Portland, Oregon artist with a penchant for indie-folk sounds, on this outing Noah Kite’s in the company of Laura Gershman (oboe, English horn), Alan Cook (percussion), Esme Schwall (cello, harmonies) and Colin Corner (upright bass), as well as some guests, as they dissect the highs and lows of relationships with much diverse songwriting.
“Carrion Birds” starts the listen with precise drumming alongside expressive singing from Kite, as graceful strings enter the orchestral influenced indie-folk ideas, and “Hair Ties” continues this exploration with intricate guitar and soaring vocal harmonies that are both intimate and adventurous.
The title track lands in the middle and brings a warm and eloquent spirit to the cello focused climate, while “Take Me To Your Room” moves swiftly, playfully and with a firm chamber rock approach. “Right Again”, one of the album’s best, then brings a stirring, emotive demeanor to a very cautious delivery.
Near the end, “Corvallis” builds into a lush, busy display of timeless folk sensibilities amid a charming dreaminess, and “Shoreline” exits the listen with Catherine Feeny’s harmonies illuminating the sublime beauty that we could listen to endlessly.
An album that alternates between tense and serene, Kite and company mesh folk, chamber, orchestral, symphonic and indie moments into a very unique and absorbing effort that makes an immediate and lasting impression.
Travels well with: Our Band- Bright As You; Julia Kasdorf- Motel