Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Reviews Efren’s Rise On Up and Melt is drenched in mystical Southern imagery
Posted by Nadia Lelutiu on Wed, Jun 29, 2011 at 9:59 AM
Summer is a perfect time for a new Efren release. Scott Leon-O’Day's rich, tranquil vocal tones are enough to prompt laid-back moments, whether it be with friends or alone with a stiff drink; and what’s summer about if not slacking off and feeling fine. The group’s third release, Rise On Up and Melt finds Efren continuing to forge a hazy, country-folk ride through contemplative and wistful story lines about personal and social circumstances.
The album opens with “Moonshine,” a song that captures of the group’s warm, atmospheric foundation, drenched in mystical Southern imagery. “Like a Coat” emphasizes the poetic nature of Leon-O’Day’s songwriting through an alluring and swelling melody sung in the sort of hushed tones that are used when sharing a deep secret.
The middle of the album offers two of the most stunning songs, including title track, with its tender harmonies and the deep rumble of an upright bass, followed by the ethereal saga of “Mr. Greene.”
There’s a noticeable continuum between Rise On Up and Melt, and Efren’s previous two albums, Always Been a Bleeder and Thunder and Moan, though the new release seems more focused, suggesting that Efren has become comfortable with its smoky, whiskey-soaked Southern traipse. (Slo Pro Records)
"Moonshine"
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