A trio of standout recent tracks from Portland, OR-based project Adult Male Blondes showcase the project’s versatility and emotional depth, moving fluidly between delicate vulnerability and spirited bursts of sonic color.
Released last month, “cut” showcases Adult Male Blondes’ knack for satiating tonal evolution, seamlessly rising from quaint acoustic strums and glimpses of twinkling piano. “I’m gonna be a friend to you,” warming vocals radiate into a bouncy rhythmic backing, bolstered by warming guitar distortion past the one-minute turn. The track develops with embracing, magnetic qualities.
Also compelling, “ricky” unfolds with a folk-ready appeal as sturdy acoustics and twangy guitars meld into an introspective declaration: “You’re so tethered to your pulsing little atrophies.” The lyrics capture a raw internal conflict, weaving self-awareness and emotional detachment into poetic fragments that feel both intimately confessional and universally resonant.
“elegy” is another success, dynamic in its range from more grandiose moments — with vibrant piano and hints of orchestral whimsy — to more subdued folk immersion. Adult Male Blondes thoroughly compel across these three tracks and two recent EPs in crud and ricochet.
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These and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
