RIYL: Conor Oberst, Sufjan Stevens, Bifrost Arts
Brooklyn alt-gospel duo The Welcome Wagon are stellar at doing something strange: writing devotional songs about God and religion for the indie set. Really, there aren’t many other options when your lead singer and songwriter is a preacher. But take heart. Like their previous 2 outings, their new release Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices steers well clear of peachiness and opts instead for deeply personal explorations of faith and doubt with periodic doses of feel-good celebration.
Back in 2004, fellow Brooklynite Sufjan Stevens crafted his cult classic Seven Swans using a mostly similar formula, and it’s not surprising to learn that he counts himself among the congregation of Welcome Wagons’ frontman Vito Aiuto. Stevens actually signed the band to his record label Asthmatic Kitty and
produced their debut in 2008, and he sings on a number of tracks here.
Aiuto’s wife and band mate Monique takes the lead for an early standout, “My God, My God, Parts 1 & 2”, which explores themes of uncertainty in Part 1 and delivers reassurance in Part 2. Monique uses her child-like timbre to spectacular effect, layering quiet lead vocals with angelic background harmonies over gentle piano to create a unique sonic experience that resonates on many levels.
“I Know My Redeemer Lives” is another keeper that finds Vito singing hushed praises over moving piano chords and washes of acoustic guitar. Without a straightforward verse and chorus structure the tune feels hypnotic, like a lilting hymn of praise with harmonicas. There are some hidden gems late in the album, most notably “Draw Nigh and Take the Body of the Lord”. The title might scare away some listeners on iTunes, but look past the theism and you’ll find a humble and powerful song of devotion with clarinet, banjo, and levels of virtuosity unseen in most modern music.
It’s a shame they don’t tour much, but if you’re ever in the neighborhood you can stop by Vito’s Resurrection Presbyterian Church
in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood.
They’ll be sure to welcome you with open arms, just like their music does.
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For More Information Visit:
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http://thewelcomewagon.bandcamp.com
http://www.myspace.com/welcometothewelcomewagon
