Lake
(K)
On its Dr. Seuss-referencing latest album, only the third of a reported 12 to see a proper release, the Olympia-based quintet known collectively as LAKE has created a lingering mood of shimmering clarity and earnest warmth. "Minor Trip" follows a hauntingly rich vocal delivery reminiscent of Julie Doiron with a sparingly plucked guitar and subtle percussion. Its melancholy is offset by its lush simplicity. It sounds full, though the arrangement is sparse, as though each note serves a purpose, nothing is wasted, but nothing's missing either. "Heaven" turns a '70s piano intro into a gently funky cut of cotton-candy gold.
But it's not all frivolous pop, either. "Minor Trip" opens with the warning, "Fearing the unknown/Will keep you down/But fear of death and dying will keep you trying." A simple sentiment, perhaps, but it takes on haunting gravity in the service of the song. In its gentle subtlety, jazz-toned guitars and soft tribal percussion, Oh, The Places We'll Go becomes an unassuming, bust lasting record well worth its almost-27 minutes.
Standout Tracks: "Minor Trip," "Heaven," "Bad Dream" BRYAN REED
