Withered Hand: New Gods
Withered Hand
New Gods
(Slumberland Records)
The name Withered Hand may bring up mental images of witchâs spells or bad omens, but Scottish musician Dan Willsonâs style is anything but dark. New Gods, his second record, is a smart, sharp combination of folk influence and pop rock sensibility. Guest appearances from the forefront of the Scottish music scene include members of Frightened Rabbit, Belle & Sebastian, and The Vaselines, but New Gods shows that Willson has earned his place with such talented peers.
âLove Over Desireâ has a catchy, simple chorus, but the verses sink into the struggle of relationship and obligation. âKing of Hollywoodâ is an upbeat depiction of a night out on the town, which juxtaposes nicely with âCalifornia,â the quiet aftermath. âBetween Love and Ruinâ contains some of Willsonâs sharpest lyrics. âI was thinking of sex, and you were dreaming of freedom,â he admits, though he goes on to state that he wanted to clear away the unnamed womanâs tears âbut my picket fence heart, it kept me here in my place.â
While all of New Gods goes down easily, the end refuses to let the listener become complacent. âHeart Heartâ starts out quietly but soon shakes off any misconceptions with shouted lyrics, frantic drums, and enthusiastic piano. Thereâs an energetic, live performance feeling that makes the defeatist lyrics sound triumphant. This gives way to the quiet âNot Alone,â which shows off the skillful folk that marks much Scottish music. Not one to be pinned down, Withered Handâs album ends on chanted vocals and spectacular brass. New Gods is a fascinating, beautiful album deserving of many listens to take in all the lyrics.
RT @ShortSweetLA: Withered Hand New Gods (Slumberland Records) The name Withered Hand may bring up mental images of witchâs spells… http:âŠ
RT @ShortSweetLA: Withered Hand New Gods (Slumberland Records) The name Withered Hand may bring up mental images of witchâs spells… http:âŠ
RT @ShortSweetLA: Withered Hand New Gods (Slumberland Records) The name Withered Hand may bring up mental images of witchâs spells… http:âŠ