Downpilot - This is the Sound

by Maarten Schiethart

published: 3 / 11 / 2018

Label: Tapete Records
Format: CD

Appealing but sometimes lazy 70's-influenced soft country rock on latest album from American group Downpilot

Review

Downpilot's Paul Hariga's slightly nasal voice reminds one of Guided By Voices' Robert Pollard and also perhaps Tom Petty. Unmistakenly American on the gorgeous 'Behind the Sea', Downpilot bring back to memory the early days of country rock of the 1970s. Twanging fiddles and vocal harmonies, which construe these Southern US moments, are aplenty. "Sound of Everywhere," Hariga sings on 'Your Supply', and he's ever so right. 'We Just Come and Go' then though reveals the genuine beauty found on this album. As a composition of an immaculate quality, it is not only the highlight but yet also the turning point on the album. Stepping into further dark stages, Downpilot spiral downwards in gentle fashion after that. There is plenty of echoing with subtle guitar lick after, which prove non arresting in every way imaginable. It is very much a veranda carpet ride with a few sardonic remarks knotted in the lyrics, but a very pleasant ride into Autumn and Winter nevertheless 'This is the Sound' carries its torch with grace.

Track Listing:-

1 Your Supply
2 Historian
3 We Just Come and Go
4 High and Guided
5 St. Clair
6 Thievers
7 Behind the Sea
8 Wear It Like a Crown
9 At the Window
10 Finistère