A murkily melodic blend of rock and electronica ventures across Zero Dollar Consolation Prize, the new album from Pittsburgh-based artist Ancient History. The project of Don Ducote touts an engrossing reach, tonally, from contemplative folk ruminations to blasts of synth/guitar interplaying excitement.
The album immerses from the get-go. “Madcow” beckons with “watch the fireworks,” contemplation into brisker percussive effects and brass-y resonance; the production excels in its range from quaint psych-folk sentiments to art-rock intrigue, making for a sound fondly reminiscent of Sunset Rubdown. The ensuing “Thin Gypsy Thief” continues the dynamic reach, moving hypnotic psych-folk sentiments into a rousing wall of guitar distortion and vocal ardency. Zero Dollar Consolation Prize is no stranger to impactful, versatile tonal pursuits throughout.
The album continues its compelling sound beyond, from the nocturnal, ghostly dreamy pop spell of “Courtesy Telephone” to the synth-heavy multi-vocal captivation of finale “Home Safe.” “Clementines” is another standout, bolstered further by a colorfully inviting music video (below) from media artist Kyle A. Adams. The ’90s-era ADAT recording choice and guitar work from Dane Adelman lead the memorable production, intertwining a slowly unveiling vocal entrancement alongside lyrics about coming to terms with goodbyes. Zero Dollar Consolation Prize is a strongly melodic showing from Ancient History.
Check out the music video for “Clementines”:
Stream the album in full:
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“Clementines” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
