Lost in the Trees
(Anti-)
Given their idyllic handle, and cover art that offers sepia renderings of rural environs, the presence of acoustic guitars, harpsichord, accordion and forlorn vocals comes as no surprise. Still, this loose conglomerate easily bests any lo-fi expectations by elevating this sophomore set into more sophisticated realms. Orchestration dominates the proceedings, and even renders two of these songs as chamber string symphonies.
However, unlike the ensemble's debut EP, Time Taunts Me# the new album makes better use of concise melodies and winsome arrangements, as demonstrated by the woozy strum accompanying "A Room Where Your Paintings Hang" and the dramatic, cinematic flourishes of "Walk Around the Lake."
Vocalist/guitarist/conceptual mastermind Ari Picker remains the presumed ringleader, but contributions are coaxed from multi-instrumentalist Emma Nadego and guitarist Joah Tunnell, who, together with drummer Scott Carle, make this more of a band effort. The title track proves a stunning example of their symmetry, with Nadego's soaring soprano wafting through the song's weary environs. Clearly, Lost in the Trees is a work in progress, but their evolution is rapidly advancing.
DOWNLOAD: "All Alone in an Empty House," "Walk Around the Lake" LEE ZIMMERMAN
