Alex Nackman bares his very soul with the confessional quality of “Above Sirens.” Everything works. The band proves exceptional at combining several different genres – from country rock to pop, with even hints of electronica thrown into the mix. His voice ties the entire journey together, making the album work as a singular, coherent whole. Verses are chiseled out of life’s experiences, and a reflective tenor weaves itself through every piece, making each a chapter in a much larger narrative.
“Telephone” sets the tone with this big, bombastic sound that becomes awe-inspiring, and the drums convey such strong emotions. Sung with grit and soul is the determined “In the Right Place.” Softer, almost Fleetwood Mac adjacent, is the stormy world of “Raise the Sails,” which feels like an instant classic. Notes hover in the air with the mysticism of “Take Cover,” complete with elongated strings that radiate elegance. “10,000 Feet” offers unfiltered emotion with the idea of raising above it all. Seemingly building off the previous piece, “Miles Away” has a dreamy, hazy deposition, incorporating lyrics that add to the surrealism. “Eyes for You” has a driving pulse to it, with the rest of the arrangement snapping into place. “Don’t Tear It Down” has a plea, offering a clever way to explore the concept of forgiveness. Tying the whole thing together, “Dear Rose” ends the album off on a high note.
“Above Sirens” draws the listener into a forgiving and compassionate world, with Alex Nackman’s lyricism charting out new lands and new ways of approaching life.
For those interested, this shall be re-released and re-mastered for a limited edition vinyl via their Bandcamp below on October 10th:
Above Sirens | Alex Nackman