Van Pierszalowski refound his form in WATERS (facebook/twitter) after the dissolution of his cherished alt-folksters Port O’Brien, and Out In The Light is his debut – a record that’s raw, rough around the edges and always emotive. It’s a album that has the focus of a solo effort, but Pierszalowski brought in a number of people for collaboration notably guitarist/keyboardist Nikolai Haukeland. The other studio and touring band members seem to be a little more fluid, but the breadth of talent Pierszalowski has drawn upon is impressive by itself.
It’s got the grungy groove and choruses reminiscent of REM’s glory days, but brought thoroughly into 2011 with a bit of help from producer John Congleton, who tightens up and hardening the whole affair that may have otherwise slipped towards a softer-indie sound, making the changes from soothing lullaby of Ones You Had Before, to the thumping chorus of Abridge My Love.
I could refer to the album as pop, for the song writing and simple/catchy-as-fuck guitar riffs alone should appeal to the masses – but this isn’t just a pop record. Pierszalowski’s voice is left to bare the cracks of a life wrestled open and the whole time maintaining the charm of an LP recorded by friends in garage reflecting on the twists and turns of their relationship – a debut to the core.
There are no gimmicks, no electronic trickery – just a good old-fashioned record that will make you both smile and cry – an timeless and intense rebirth from a very talented artist.
(*hat tip* to Drunken Werewolf for putting me on to this one)
[BUY] WATERS – Out In The Light
WATERS – O Holy Break Of Day
WATERS – For The One
