The Young Tradition
's 2003 single for
"California Morning"
was a shining example of what makes
indie pop
so great: beautiful melodies sweetly sung and tenderly played with bubbling organs, chiming guitars, and majestic horns.
's 2005 album
Northern Drive
lives up to the lofty promise of the EP and more. It includes the sublime
and nine other gentle and lovely songs perfect for melancholy afternoons when you're busy doing nothing. The duo of Swedish instrumentalist
Erik Hanspers
and American vocalist
Brent Kenji
recorded the album in much the same way they did the single; the music was made in Sweden by
Hanspers
and a few friends, the vocals recorded in San Francisco by
Kenji
. As on the EP,
again creates lush and captivating tunes for
to croon over. He is especially fond of electric piano and vibes, giving the record a strange '70s
jazz
feel at times, especially on the emotional
ballad
"Footprints"
and
"Pink Opaque."
Most of the record has an autumnal, relaxed feel with loads of gently strummed acoustic guitars, quiet organ, and restrained drumming, though a couple of tracks, like the loud and
Byrds-y
"Now You Know"
and the
synth pop
-inspired
"Endlessly"
pep things up without breaking the spell.
, formerly of
heroes
Fairways
, is never anything less than wonderful; his intimate and direct vocal style gives the songs an emotional strength that a weaker singer couldn't hope to deliver. There aren't many better singers in the world of
, and it is a pleasure to hear him with such strong backing.
have crafted a real gem of a record, full of emotion, hooks, and depth. Don't be afraid of the
tag;
is about as twee as a broken heart, and that is just about what you deserve if you miss this band and its sparkling gem of an album. ~ Tim Sendra