In its official bio, Julian and the Upside Sound, remind listeners that this new collection of folk- rock and upswing of artists like The Avett Brothers and Mumford & Sons is very ‘now.’ This California band has an array of interesting prose mixed with Irish tendencies and rustic bluegrass flare. Do Julian and the Upside Sound add to the mix and modernize the sound? Or do they continue the rich tradition in their own unique way?
“Water” toe-tapping strings that border between square dancing and solstice swaying. The lyrics are rapid in delivery, meshed with a robust chorus delivery. Something about this song feels like a summer’s day ride on a bicycle.
“Constantly Risking Absurdity” strangely feels like more of a fluid cascading arrangement than “Water.” The trickling guitar strings plunder along, to a babbling mandolin chatter. The vocals don’t seem to have the personality the backing orchestrations has.
In “Mimi’s Waltz/On Your Sleeve” the delicate strings and moving orchestration seems to have a tighter dance with the vocals. Julian McClanahan’s voice sounds more aged; a feet likely due to the fact that vocals are shared throughout the collections with his father (Brad) and other members whose ages stretch all the way to 75. The result throughout each chapter (track) is a rich soul mixed with earthy tones and bluegrass appeal.
“Psalm of Life” and “Halfway” are both enriched tunes that feed the soul. “Solstice Reel”(no vocals) and “Something Seven” continue the mood. They are full of Celtic rhythm, wrapped in a sun-filled joyful beat.
The remaining three tracks “Sun Hats,” “Silverlining Waltz” and “Out of Time” perfectly complete the overall engaging and pleasant package. Julian and the Upside Sound have a tight, niche feel. They can easily boast 10 tracks that sometimes put prose to music in a most simplistic way, yet the overall result is joyful and grinning with love.
Julian and the Upside Sound’s self-titled CD garners a B+. This band stands apart for staying true to their music – their way of creating something special.
