album review
AZITA
Glen Echo
Drag City
March 5, 2021
Glen Echo is the latest release from longtime indie singer and multi-instrumentalist Azita Youssefi. A melodic guitar-driven record laced with a deep, dark, almost Jonathan Richman-like vocal effort. The album kicks off with the title track, a sad but charming song set to an infectiously calm guitar line. “Onlife Life” is a delightfully kick-ass indie track with just the right amount of grit, sprinkled with truly killer guitar riffs- an obvious single for the album. “Two Brutal Moving Parts” showcases Youssefi’s percussive effort, reminding you that yes, she is indeed a multi-instrumentalist.
“If U Die” is one of the singles from the album, kicking off with sing-songy verses bridged with clean rhythm guitars that give away to more hooky riffs. The song carries a hint of apathy that’s set to warm and sunny layers of guitar; a combination that is undeniably catchy. “Bruxism” is a punchy, octane thrill ride that takes the listener on a dizzying ride
The album ends with two heavy hitters averaging at about seven minutes a piece. “Our Baby” is a dark, almost prog-rock like anthem, backed with a particularly crispy symbol effort. “Don’t” closes the album with a delicate yet powerful piano-driven tune, showcasing a truly raw and sensitive vocal effort that can’t help but move the listener. The song closes with shredding, Tash Sultana like guitar solos, over the deep piano melody; a duality I absolutely love, and a hell of a note to end on. For fans of Courtney Barnett, Mac DeMarco, and Snail Mail, Glen Echo is available to stream on major platforms and is for purchase on Bandcamp.