A memorable Americana sound persists throughout Talkin’ Destination Blues, the new album from Singing River. The Rochester, NY-based project is led by Mikey James (the former drummer for Longwave) and Anthony Kuhn. Other players include Jeremy Stoner on bass and Johnny Cummings on piano.
The album’s title track opens with a warming allure. “I really like it here with you,” comforting vocals mingle amidst frolicking guitars and gentle piano. Wordless enthusiasm pairs in the background, for hypnotic impact. “I wanna be your destination,” they continue with a soaring emotiveness, easing into the “I like being here with you,” refrain. “A Hill Worth Climbing” succeeds with a similarly introspective tone alongside jangling guitars and radiant vocal work, lyrically capturing a sense of being lost and stranded — and acknowledging a hill to climb, though one that’s well worthwhile.
Another highlight comes in “She Feels like a Diamond.” Debonair vocals and twanging guitars conjure a throwback rock feeling. “No levee built could ever hold her back,” the vocals capture an adventurous, beautiful spirit. The title-referencing hook dazzles with a touch of brass and psych-friendly charm, with shades of Nilsson. Talkin’ Destination Blues is an absorbing success from Singing River.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
