Deadboy & The Elephantmen – We Are The Night Sky

This duo must be tired of comparisons to the White Stripes. But it’d be pretty hard to shake, in some ways. Two people, guitar and drums, bluesy rawk…

But there are differences here, too, in their farther-ranging sonic approach, a little less bombast, and no candycane outfits. More significantly, Riggs’ vocals are far less shrill than White’s, and Brunet can actually harmonize.

This album alternates between balls-out electric rockers, where the energy really shines, and plodding, minimalist tracks where the vocals come to the fore and it seems he’s almost afraid to strum his acoustic. And there’s really not much middle ground, it’s all or nothing. This makes for a weird listen, but it’s still highly pleasing overall. It’s fun to not know what’s coming next. I can see why this album appealed to Fat Possum.

Break It Off and Evil Friend sound like they were recorded in the living room, on cheap equipment. Kissed By Lightning would really rock in a concert setting. Album opener Stop, I’m Already Dead is a keeper, as is Ancient Man.

Just hear this and decide for yourself. I liked it.

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