The sophomore album from the bedroom project of Tucson, Arizona's Mike Barnett and Alex Morton finds Forest Fallows teaming up with John McEntire on mixing for the nostalgic sounds of these 10 tracks, which also embrace ’90s indie-rock and post-rock, too.
“Better Each” gets the listen off to a warm and dreamy start, where a soothing backdrop is met with a sunny ambience. “Reservations” then recruits a cozy jangle, as crisp drumming is met with flowing guitar, and “Clams Casino” continues the serenity via strong attention to atmosphere amid the pop ideas.
Moving into the middle, Connor Gallaher’s bright lap steel enters the lush and melodic “Ain’t Gonna Last,” while “Just Another Day At The Ace Lounge” is a rich and stylish moment of gentle yet exploratory pop fun. “Hotel Radisson” then welcomes Ramona’s well-timed saxophone and Emmanuelle Fahey’s French monologue for the charming climate and radiates beauty and sophistication.
Further still, “In Light” employs waves of scrappy and soaring indie-rock which flirts with the hazy, light side of the equation, and the title track exits with McEntire’s drum kit fueling the sonic, ambient and textured finish to a very meticulous record.
A truly unique listen that is eclectic enough to draw comparisons to Animal Collective, Steely Dan, Radiohead, The Sea & The Cake or even The Beach Boys, this album’s every moment wraps us up in a blanket of comforting, somewhat mysterious song craft that draws from the ’60s on.
The duo have worked together for 10+ years, and that chemistry plus the excellent production and focused harmonies, reverb and percussive noisemakers leaves an indelible impression. An ideal listen for deep contemplation or just lounging around, there’s just so much to enjoy from Forest Fallows and this limited edition LP.
Rating: A-
