The Gentle Guest
Cast Off Your Human Form
(Amble Down)
I have to say, The Gentle Guest is the first band in my music collection with the real and true genre label of Americana. Generally, Americana does not interest me. I’m far more into British history, I’m bad at state capitals, and I’m still very fuzzy about the origins of the guitar. But that isn’t to say I’m against the concept of our heritage. And I’m sure there are other bands that I’m fond of that could fall under this label. But it’s given me something to think about.
The Gentle Guest is from a smallish Wisconsin city called Eau Claire, which I visited just a couple of weeks ago. Some of my favorite people are from this town, and I think, well, hope, that I have a little more insight into this band now that I’ve been to their town. Like any city with a population of less than 100,000, there are some people yearning to get out into the big, exciting world. And there are others who are afraid that us glitzy Hollywood types will think they’re backwoods.
But Eau Claire and Gentle Guest are not backwoods at all, just genuine. The band’s twang reminds me of The Devil Makes Three and their lead singer, Eric Rykal, has a heartbreaking vocal quality similar to Luke Doucet. I know that I could put this album on my iPod and play it for anyone in the car, and they would almost definitely enjoy it. Which isn’t to say they’re a "safe" band – there’s the occasional swear word, heavy melodies, and melancholy lyrics.
I know it’s simply not fair, but I often myself judging albums based upon their danciness. But no worries this time, as Cast Off Your Human Form passes easily. Right now is the perfect time to spotlight this album at a backyard party, where there’s a gazebo, strung lights, and a chill in the air to make the whole thing just ever so spooky when the spiritual, almost gospel-ish “Who Is Gonna Love You” comes on. Now then: who will lend me their gazebo? |
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