The Elected – Sun, Sun, Sun

” I look forward to an album of theirs when they strip away those thick layers of LA sun and luxury studio mastering and record an album in hotel rooms where it sounds like it was recorded in hotel rooms (apparently it was) or in a darn barn. ”

” I look forward to an album of theirs when they strip away those thick layers of LA sun and luxury studio mastering and record an album in hotel rooms where it sounds like it was recorded in hotel rooms (apparently it was) or in a darn barn. “


 
The Elected – Sun, Sun, Sun
(Konkurrent)

Alt-Indie-Country is honestly not my favorite genre, but knowing The Elected is a side project from several members of Rilo Kiley, and as Jenny Lewis contributes to the album as well I thought I’d give it a try.  The Elected and Blake Sennett soft voice could easily be confused as Elliot Smith on Prozac doing country. Though his voice is not strong it’s musically made-up for by endless dittying and solid song writing. 


Not Going Home is good but and well orchestrated.  I think the high production level on several of the songs actually distracts and lacks a quirky roughness that would therefore authenticate it.  Title track Sun, Sun, Sun is simple and very effective on the other hand.  It’s catchy and doesn’t crowd Sennett’s soft voice with too many elements making it probably the best track on the album.  His voice actually comes across much more powerful because of the simplicity and it has a great melody.  The album is moody and atmospheric and could make an excellent companion soundtrack to the recent film Brokeback Mountain, especially the delicate pop song I’ll Be Your Man. Sweet alt-country songs that happen to be a little too sweet for my tastes.


The last track, the short At Home, is once again better, simple, short and sweet.  It feels more believable then some of the others. 


Not nearly as clever as any albums from Rilo Kiley, Sun, Sun, Sun was a bit too light for my tastes, but will appeal to many.  I look forward to an album of theirs when they strip away those thick layers of LA sun and luxury studio mastering and record an album in hotel rooms where it sounds like it was recorded in hotel rooms (apparently it was) or in a darn barn. 


Words: Zoe E. Gottehrer