Monday, March 9, 2009

June Madrona - Battlegrounds



June Madrona's most recent release, Battlegrounds, is a folk inspired work, with diverse instrumentation that complements their stripped down acoustic style. The lead singer, Ross Cowman's, voice reminds me of Colin Meloy of the Decemberists, but with a less nasal sound. The album whimsical aesthetic that is accentuated by flute and melodica solos sprinkled throughout. Each track, while satisfyingly simple, adds a different element of subtly to the album, while flowing seamlessly into one another. This is the fourth release by June Madrona, and easily their best, as the band has been able to hone in on their craft, bringing a new level of musical maturity to their work.

Track Listing:
1. Battle Ground
2. Grandpaw Frank
3. The Football Dream
4. Trying to Sleep
5. Wolf Dream
6. Dandelion Seeds
7. Contents of a Bus
8. Long Distance
9. Love is Complicated
10. Transatlantic
11. Big Sur
12. California Highways

If you like what you hear, they're playing a show at the Echo Curio on March 21st as well.

-Clio

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