The age of artificial product (from flavor all the way to intelligence) has deeply impacted the music industry. Almost every genre of music has seen the infiltration of drum machines, synthesizers, auto voice tuners and sound mixers. It seems to be more and more infrequent that a band produces flawed and even spontaneous music anymore. The Felice Brothers, on the other hand, have embraced and even come close to perfecting, imperfection.
Yonder is the Clock, the second studio release from the 4 brothers and close friend (Christmas) hailing from Palenville, NY, may seem to be quite amateur at first glance because of its less than polished qualities. For example, Ian Felice’s smokey voice often seems scratchy and occasionally off key. At times, the quintet even seems to miss notes and the arrangements can come off as under organized. I’m not sure how accidental these flaws really are, but they are brilliant.
The raw nature of Yonder is the Clock is worth the price of admission alone, but you get much more than miss-ques and spontaneity in this ambitious sophomore release. The Felice Brothers may have put their washboards and jugs aside since their self-titled debut, but the variety of instrumentation on Yonder is the Clock does not lack. Accordions and stand up pianos lace “Buried in Ice” and “Ambulance Man” with an eerie Cajun sound. “Memphis Flu” and “Penn Station” epitomize the spontaneous jam band feeling. “Katie Dear” and “Cooperstown” ground Yonder is the Clock with a slow earthy vibe reminiscent of Tom Waits.
Yonder is the Clock is a very unique listening experience. The album, as a whole, is a very raw and real endeavor. If you are part of the new indie/folk fan base you may be feeling like me, tired of the same old used sounds that have become the new mainstream. The Felice Brothers have taken this stereotype and shoved it in the garbage. Yonder is the Clock takes you on a ride that few will be willing to experience, but those who do will not be disappointed.
- Listen start to finish - 17
- Listen again within a week - 18
- Originality - 17
- Advancement - 13
- Remorse - 18
Total - 83
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