A recent recap of under-the-radar releases
Gurf Morlix – “Bristlecone”
Morlix has been particularly prolific of late. This new album arrives on the heels of five other exceptional efforts released over the last three years. The artist obviously has plenty of pent-up emotion to share, sentiments expressed on those aforementioned efforts and which fully reveal themselves in the music encompassing this new set of songs, as well.
Here, Morlix confronts mortality deliberately, as indicated by the steadfast approach of “Step on It Skinner;” the prominent pulse of “Glimmer of Hope;” the darker designs of “Beelzebub;” and the slow yet sturdy pace that underscores “Beautiful You,” “Between Midnight and Dawn” and the curiously titled “Suspended in Alcohol.” There’s a pervasive ominous tone hanging over the proceedings, one that’s cast like clouds on the verge of a storm. The aural imagery of the mournful and melancholy “Chasin’ a Ghost,” validates its harrowing title. The croaking vocal and lingering lament of the title track also finds the singer bemoaning the fact he’s growing old. However, given his compulsive creativity, it’s clear he has plenty of drive and determination yet to offer. (gurfmorlix.com)
Deep Blue Something – “Lunar Phase”
It’s been awhile since Deep Blue Something made any sort of impact on the charts, having scored its most substantial success in 1995 with the hit single “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” off its sophomore album “Home.” In the intervening years, the band parted ways with record label Interscope, which resulted in its follow-up effort “Byzantium” issued overseas only. The group broke up shortly thereafter, then reformed, but it was another dozen years or so before its next record appeared.
That makes this release a decidedly belated comeback. Nevertheless, the energy and excitement remain intact, making “Lunar Phase” well worth the wait. The tones sway from absolute engagement to erstwhile emotion, with songs such as “Saint Morrissey,” “Wanna Know Why” and “Rock Island Line” each serving notice courtesy of indelible hooks and memorable melodies that make an impact even upon first listen. (deepbluesomethingofficial.com)
Bryan Schumate – “Broken Window”
A principal member of The Van DeLecki’s, a duo that also includes producer and multi-instrumentalist Jamie Hoover, Schumate has demonstrated a proclivity for power pop throughout his career while also maintaining a certain anthemic prowess that underscores the appeal. His new EP is no exception. A five-song set built on themes about endurance, it offers a veritable call to arms, offering a rousing response to those who might be tempted to give in to fear and trepidation.
The surefooted “It’s Time Spent” offers a narrative that describes a person intent on wasting people’s time and what it feels like when one’s attention is squandered as a result. Although it comes across as a beautiful ballad, the title track deals with homelessness, despair and desperation. It’s a tale told from the perspective of someone in that situation and yet ultimately finds cause for optimism. The engaging “Minefields” is an analogy of sorts that deals with what transpires when one is stuck in a position in which any move can lead to disaster and there are no viable options to consider. The closing, compelling ballad “Juliette” refers not to a person but rather is a euphemism for roulette and the way a gambling addiction can impact a relationship. (bryanshumatemusic.com)
John Gorka – “Unentitled”
Words alone can’t adequately describe the beauty this singer-songwriter conveys through his music. Having made an iconic imprint within the new-folk movement in the late ‘70s, his career now spans 40 years and 17 solo albums. Gorka’s music is widely admired by other artists in that celebrated scene although he never gained the mainstream following he deserves. That’s a shame, really, because his insight and intelligence easily qualify him as one of the most compelling artists making music today.
Its sly reference aside, “Unentitled” contains meaningful themes that confront social ills and threats to the planet that seem more pervasive than ever. “Give Me Back Our Water” addresses that dilemma directly. The emotion layered into such offerings as “Hold On,” “Welcome Home,” “First Snow on the Mountains” and “A Light Exists in Spring” (an Emily Dickinson poem set to song) are genuinely affecting and riveting. With fellow folkies Lucy Kaplansky and Eliza Gilkyson contributing to the recording, this is an album that feels entitled to be labeled a masterpiece. (johngorka.com)
Will Hawkins – “Cartas No Enviadas”
Here, the Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and frontman of Americana rock band Nine Mile Station shares songs that resonate with both grit and gravitas. Translated to English as “Unsent Letters,” this album features oversight from Grammy-winning producers Al Schmitt (Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney) and Niko Bolas (Neil Young, Warren Zevon) and contributions from an all-star backing band including regular collaborator/multi-instrumentalist Fernando Perdomo.
It’s Hawkins’ elevated emotions that dominate the set overall, though; as a follow-up to Nine Mile Station’s stunning 2023 debut “Bazar,” it shares the same sense of urgency and earnest intent and a sound that drives such songs as “What Your Words Say,” “New Friends” and “As Good as It Gets” to new heights of anthemic proportion. A mix of original songs and covers by Colin Hay, David Poe and Lola Young, the songs sync together courtesy of Hawkins’ thoughtful and evocative expression. Such compelling urgency shines through on an album that ought to carry him forward for some time to come. (www.willhawkinsmusic.com)
lee@blanknews.com
