When members from bands as accomplished and talented as the Mendoza Line do side projects, usually the result is a songwriting outlet for supporting members of the band, or an entirely different musical vision by one or more of the members. Usually, if the band is strong enough and the side project remains secondary, the band actually gains strength from the newfound freedom and expression put forth. But when the side project is this strikingly good, and ambition for new albums is already in the works, the parent band may be in trouble.
I hope that this is not the case with the Mendoza Line, but Slow Dazzle is poised to have priorities shift if the response to this album is as positive as I think it will be. The album, similarly to the Mendoza Line, is based in folk and country, focused on songwriting as an art form ripe with storytelling, but differs in its electronic, but still organic feel. The songs are understated, unadorned, but unmistakably accomplished.
The album starts with the haunting “Fleur De Lie,” where we are first introduced to Shannon McArdle’s smoky yet sensual vocals. She dips in and out subtle melodies as the song floats along on drenched organ, driving piano, and reverb that would make any Pro Tools operator blush. As I listened to “Fleur De Lie” the first time I was completely unprepared for what was to come next. The feel of “Welfare State” keeps the ambiance of the previous effort, but is undoubtedly different in its rootsy, bar room feel led by the forlorn vocals of Timothy Bracy.
Throughout the album McArdle and Bracy trade vocals on each succinct arrangement. The songs keep a similar innocence and succeed in their genuine air. The album works as an ambitious start to a project that could be very successful, which is remarkably successful in building anticipation for the next full length, however this short effort (eight songs) leaves the listener wanting more.
“The View From Above” is a short but sweet introduction to an artist that I anticipate to create some great music in the near future. The potential is there but I am waiting for Slow Dazzle to deliver that special album that I know they are capable of. |