High Horse
Adhyâropa, 2024
8/10
A Boston outfit with a penchant for progressive-acoustic sounds, High Horse, i.e. Carson McHaney, Karl Henry, G Rockwell and Noah Harrington, bring a few guests alongside for these 12 organic tunes.
“Tombstone Territory” opens with carefully plucked strings and Rockwell’s melodic guitar adding a nice contrast between soft and firm gestures, and “Holy Water” continues the dynamic interaction with gorgeous female vocals that complement the pretty delivery.
Deeper into the listen, “Dotted Line” makes great use of Harrington’s strategic bass in the busy versus bare moments, while “Discern” benefits much from Henry’s skilled cello amid many voices via the rich album highlight.
Close to the end, “Suite” unfolds across 4 chapters of careful and stirring strings that mesmerize and enlighten, and “Ground Hog” exits with a quick and dance floor ready appeal of bluegrass nods.
A very unique effort, the cinematic moments, tempo shifts, country and folk sensibilities and Appalachia bouts makes every moment here worth repeated visits.
Travels well with: Eureka Shoes- Beautalina; Jacob Jolliff- Instrumentals Vol. 2: Mandolin Mysteries