Justin Levinson “Collamer Circle”
Vermont singer-songwriter Justin Levinson’s newest LP Collamer Circle, is his fifth full-length album and first after returning from four years in Los Angeles. Together with fellow songwriter Ben Patton, they have created their first official collaboration, cementing a musical kinship that dates back to their high school days. These songs explore a wide range of topics, from the complexities of relationships to contemplative self-reflection. Justin still knows how to craft songs with great hooks like the opener “Madeline For The Win.”
Like a lighter version of Adam Schlesinger, Levinson adds some bounce and joy to songs like the Beach Boys-influenced “California Sun” and “Baby You’ve Arrived.” The guitar riffs and harmonies on the Jellyfish-like “Lead Me To You” and “She Spreads Sunshine Everywhere” are also nice highlights. The ballads vary from cute fluff (“Mirabelle”) to treacle (“No One Can Be Your Everything”). Overall, enough here to make this a Highly Recommended listen.
Diners “Domino”
Mo Troper produced this vision of singer/songwriter Blue Broderick. Blue certainly has the musical hooks on the twee “Working On My Dreams,” but really doubles down on the sophisticated power pop arrangements on the title track with elements of both The Beatles and Big Star. Like Troper’s last album, it doesn’t sit still stylistically. “So What” is a great example of this, as the Ramones’ riffs contrast with her halting vocals. Each song seems a contemplation on making a commitment, the best on this theme is the catchy “The Power” which is a big highlight here.
Even minimal tracks like “Painted Pictures” stick fast in your head. Wistful longing is a staple of power pop and Blue does a great job with “Someday I’ll Go Surfing” and “I Don’t Think About You The Way I Used To.” Overall, a genuinely delightful record that will win you over, despite running out of steam in the latter third. Highly Recommended.