Rome
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
Coming off a well received EP in 2018, the very unique outfit Porterfield brings Jacob Aviner (vocals, piano, guitar), Jared Yee (tenor sax, fx), JP Goldman (MOOG bass), and Raphael Lehnan (drums) to 11 tracks that are difficult to categorize, but easy to enjoy.
“Intro” starts the listen with much atmosphere, as soft brass and distant drumming are complemented by the hazy approach, and this segues into the dreamy “Always”, where Aviner’s expressive singing is met with gentle guitar, soulful sax and a very stylish delivery.
The middle tracks bring us the calm, soothing “Christine”, which benefits from sparing trombone, while “Willow Tree” makes good use of flute in its harmonic and breezy climate. “Amber”, the album standout, then uses hypnotic guitar work amid a precisely textured display of indie-rock ideas and jazz undertones that highlights violin and viola, too.
Near the end, the warm piano of “Cold Sun” offers a quick instrumental of mature and emotive songwriting, and “Paul” exits with some of the best drumming present alongside playful horns and a creative vision that’s complete with a clarinet.
It’s quite apparent that much work into this debut album that spanned 5 years to make and reeled in 30-ish collaborators, and it makes for a listening experience that’s rock, pop, indie, jazz, orchestral and electronica all meshed into one exciting formula.
Travels well with: Dave Shelton Trio With Beth Kuhn- Drift; Dennis Mitcheltree- Nevermind The Circus