Review Summary: Completely unforgettable.
Summer memories: smoke in the air, and parties with strangers. It’s an ordinary life, but an odd one. Perhaps it’s a walk on the shore, or a camping trip where your friend pulls out a guitar and plays Johnny Cash. Memories are created, causing a ripple in time that makes an everlasting impression until death. All at once, She Hangs Brightly steps in the bar like a stranger, but you’re looking for a friend - memories are made.
Guitar, drums, and a sultry singer. This is so smokey already, but add beach haze guitar work, organs for texture, and personal hand percussion and the vibe is thick. Leather jacket clad, jeans - whatever - the leading lady sings over relaxing beats in a dark club, every inflection drawing her audience inward. From the opening track I was hypnotized, and at the end of the album, I didn’t realize I had reached it.
You won’t want to miss the lyrics. Both poetic and overtly revealing, they’ll speak to your core in some way. This alternative/indie rock album is completely ordinary, yet not run of the mill in any way. Expect simple strums coupled with a casual sounding singing style, but rather than mundane, a heavenly tune is reached. Certainly, there’s shoegaze elements, but some albums transcend genres. To be wrapped up in title calling is a fruitless endeavour in this case. Simply find the album and press play, just relax, it’s here for you. You are invited to an evening with Mazzy Star.
