Informed by retro flavors of the ‘60s, Midwest Handshake, the new album from folk-rock artist Skittish, aka Jeff Noller, reveals a complexity of universal emotions.
Skittish explains, “The songs on this album are a mixture of lessons from the last few years of my life. I grew up in the Midwest and after traveling all over the country, I recently landed in LA. Navigating new waters such as the LA social landscape, dating scene, and cultural climate are all challenges I’ve channeled into my new music.”
Covering unchanging themes such as social division, dating, and love, Midwest Handshake includes tasty nuances of orchestration, elements echoing the artist’s work in film sound production over the last few years.
Appearing on the album: Jeff Noller (vocals, instruments, writing), Gracie Huffman (vocals), Chris Lahn (orchestration), Brian Griffin (drums), Mark O’Day (drums), Jeremy Krueth (percussion), Jacqueline Ultan (cello), Stephen Murray (standup bass), with mixing and additional production handled by Ben Etter.
Consisting of ten tracks, highlights on Midwest Handshake include “Home Team,” with its thrumming layers of orchestration flowing into a driving tempo as Skittish’s smooth, glossy vocals imbue the lyrics with charismatic tones. Brass accents add subtle, fresh coloration, expanding the sonic dimension of the tune.
Huffman’s evocative vocals give “Second Act’ hints of melancholy and nostalgia, while on “Lowlifes,” she conjures up hints of Liz Phair, only silkier, shaded with elusive pop coloration.
A personal favorite because of its swaying ‘60s flow, “Easy on Me” summons up memories of Ricky Nelson as Skittish’s vocals drip with sad, quixotic savors, expressing the ache of love. Another favorite, once again featuring the mobile voice of Huffman, “True Believers” travels on a syncopated-lite rhythm topped by sailing layers of lush, resonant harmonics.
Delicate, poignant strings and Ultan’s impassioned cello give “The Rightest Wrong” a delicious field of dreamy, sensitive filaments as Skittish gently narrates the throbbing hurt of lost love. This is a beautifully memorable song.
For the most part jewel-toned rand laced with luscious retro-sumptuous aromas, Midwest Handshake is enchantingly structured and satisfying.
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