Never has bitter sounded so sweet. You’re singing along with a smile on your face and the wind in your hair when suddenly you realize this guy is really pissed off. I mean, some folks have really gotten under his skin. But with A Memoir, I’m saying that Josiah Rosen has gotten the last laugh. Clocking in at a smidge less than 34 minutes, the debut from the former Augustana member’s new group, The Last Almanac is a fine listen. Just when that extra guitar part should be there, it is. When that new harmony needs to kick in…there it is. Nolan Sipe gets top props for production.
Opening the disc is “Bad Blood,” which sounds like a quick nod to a former girlfriend who left him high and dry when she thought she’d hit the big time…or maybe this is about the old band? Hell, I don’t know and really don’t care enough about the back story to google it. (Although if one of you readers would like to do that and post the answer here I’ll read it.) It’s just a damn find “screw you” and an interesting way to set up the album. Following is “Barstool Loyalty” in which Rosen sings how “the barstool’s been good to me.” Yes, something that a lot of us can relate to at one time or another I’m sure.
Ripping a page from the Oasis playbook (who ripped off Lennon) is the biting “My Former Friends,” which has to be the single from the album. (I have no idea as I don’t listen to anything but NPR and a couple of college radio shows.) I mean, they can blurt out the line that drops the f-bomb. They do it all the time. Of course, that would just mess up the whole song if you did that. Really. I’m serious. Read this: “I make my peace/Not amends/Fuck you all my former friends/The gates of hell will thank you for your sins.” Now read this: “I make my peace/Not amends/You all my former friends/The gates of hell will thank you for your sins.” Just doesn’t cut it does it?
Anyway, if you’re looking for some alt-country a-la the Old 97’s Satellite Rides, A Memoir should satisfy you.
RIYL: Old 97’s, Counting Crows, space heaters with frayed cords
P.S. The Oasis song I was referring to: “Don’t Look Back In Anger”
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July 2nd, 2008 at 9:47 pm
When Augustana first came out and was touring with the counting crows I was a huge friend. One day at work a friend of mine told me about Josiah and his new band. From the first time I heard the cd I fell in love. It is amazing! I have been to a couple of their shows here in St. Louis and I always find something new that I love about this group. I have met Josiah a couple of different times and he is one of the nicest and coolest people you will ever meet. )One listen and you will fall in LOVE!
July 11th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
The sharp contrast of refined yet emotional lyrics to the gorgeous orchestra is nothing short of delicious.
A must hear if you have ever been burned in any shape or form.