Seattle act Guests churn out an otherworldly, psych-friendly vein of folk. Yearning, lo-fi male vocals mesh cohesively with an angelic female vocal presence — a fun hybrid of psych-folk and sophisti-pop. Led by guitarist/songwriter Sean Canfield, Guests reminds aesthetically of Ariel Pink’s more understated, lo-fi material. The female vocal backing provides a carefree, psych-friendly feel reminiscent of ’70s sunshine pop, with Canfield’s fairly nonchalant delivery and brooding acoustics combining for a truly unique feel that incorporates lo-fi psych-folk as well. Subtly effect melodic transitions, like the one around 01:11, work well throughout. The “I’m happy to know you,” conclusion is very affecting, specifically. Cited influences include “eastern European folk, doo wop, 60s vocal pop,” and more, with the project playing their songs live without mics or amps — conjuring “an inviting campfire storytelling vibe.” I’m definitely into this project.\
Stream the project’s new album, Legacy Out Back, below:
