Music / Reviews

Music: Tom Levin “Them Buffalo”

Tom Levin Press Photo_Halff landsc_Ph Johan Töpel_high_res

Tom Levin is a musical gem in his own right. Recently he has released his new album. Them Buffalo, which is laced with folk tendencies and rock rebellion. Levin grew up in Sweden, before relocating to Australia for University where he began to write songs. Garnering critical acclaim with his accessible brand of music, Levin proves to be an unstoppable musical force. Them Buffalo is the sixth album that Levin has released, and the second he has put out this year alone. The earlier 2014 album titled Them Feet, is a slower approach to music, as Them Buffalo proves to be a faster and more vibrant take on his musical endeavors. Kicking off the record is the upbeat and friendly “Thunder On.” Right off the bat, the piece sets the tone for the rest of the record. Levin’s voice is uplifting and surrounded by melodic harmonies that chime throughout. The resonating acoustic guitars bring the song to life, adding an enchanting sound to the record. “Mind’s Eye,” was an instant favorite on the record. Static handclaps set the tone over acoustic guitars and haunting voices that introduce the song. Levin’s voice joins with a spark of life, accompanied with a stunning light string section that carries throughout. “Everyday” breathes a different life into the record as it proves to be one of the more accessible tracks on the record. Soulful vocal harmonies accompany Levin which is a nice addition to the song. Up next is “History, Beliefs, and Bearded Men,” which takes the album down in notch in tone. The song is full of soul, straight from the heart. The track is heartbreaking, yet beautifully done in every way. This piece is a tearjerker for sure. “Different Drums,” carries along in the same vein with a subtle pace. Levin’s voice is soft yet prominent as his guitar playing is likened to Ryan Adams’ later records. “More Than a Song,” proves to be an epic piece in its own right, chiming in right from the start with a bright organ-like instrument that takes us for a musical journey. Levin’s voice is accessible and this is perhaps his best performance on the record. “Girl from Nova Scotia,” is utter perfection with intense acoustic guitars and Levin’s voice sing-talking its way through, to make the song unique from the rest, and one of the most memorable. “Schizo,” really shows off Levin’s talent for writing insightful storylines in his lyrics, making each piece very real. “Summered,” another track on the record that stood out to me greatly, is laced with slide guitar work, handclaps, and prominent acoustic guitars. The vocal harmonies breathe new life into the work, making a gorgeous creation. Closing the record is “Margaret’s House (featuring Aimee Bobruk). The combination of Levin’s and Bobruk’s vocals are beyond gorgeous. It is like their voices were made to sing together. Their heavenly sound channel a bit of 80s nostalgia, but they bring to the table a sound that is very much their own. Tom Levin’s Them Buffalo, proves to be a stunning record that is filled with folk-rock tendencies. The music of Tom Levin will appeal to music listeners from all over the board…and with a songwriting talent like his, it is to be expected.

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