Published on Aug 12, 2004
Wow. Just…you know…wow.
Now, I realize that you all normally expect better and more
elegant hyperbole from yours truly when I hit something I like. But
the debut Vanguard Records CD from Carbon Leaf,
Indian Summer, is about what you’d expect from a band with a
rep like theirs. Simply put, it’s damn great.
About that rep — how many unsigned bands: 1) Appear at the
American Music Awards; 2) Open for John Mayer, Dave Matthews, Great
Big Sea, Counting Crows, and 3) win the first Coca-Cola New Music
Award?
Sound impressive? Damn straight it is; that or it’s the biggest
piece of hype since Orson Welles invaded New Jersey. I’m happy to
say it isn’t hype, folks.
Indian Summer is one of the most powerful, brilliant, and
elegant albums of roots-tinged rock I’ve ever heard.
The production and engineering on
Indian Summer, courtesy of John Morand and former Camper Van
Beethoven front man David Lowery, is excellent. Carbon Leaf’s sound
depends strongly on stringed instruments, especially mandolin and
acoustic guitar, and the resolution on the CD is crystal clear and
heartbreakingly pure. The musicianship and performance on the CD is
excellent as well; how many bands would take on a 6/8 guitar intro
that sounds for all the world like a bagpipe? (Check out “This Is
My Song” for that, a rip-roaring tear through electric guitar fun).
Add in intense songwriting that left me breathless at points and
what you have is a strong contender for my personal CD Of The
Year.
There isn’t a bad song on
Indian Summer, but this humble reviewer will bring a couple
to your attention. “Paloma” is simply incredible, its harmonies
haunting and driving; “What About Everything?” is a Zen koan in
four minutes of pop music; “Let Your Troubles Roll By” is a
rollicking traipse through optimism; and the closing track, “The
Sea,” is a bluesy, shimmering word picture. Brilliant, I tell you.
Brilliant.
Carbon Leaf’s
Indian Summer has been a long time coming; this is a band
who didn’t sign a record deal until they were damn good and ready
to. Enjoy the warmth, enjoy the summer; this is definitely worth
grabbing now.