When you name an album Quit Work Make Music, you create a to-do list for yourself. You’ve got to make sure that the lyrics are the right amount of nonchalant, that the tracks flow smoothly, and that you’ve captured a carefree demeanor that screams “cool.” It may seem like a lot for something that’s meant to be natural, but for the right artist or group everything will fall into place the way it’s supposed to. Sam Densmore and Curtis Irie showcase just how well they’ve captured cool, calm, and collected in this collaborative effort.
This album sounds like you’re listening in on a Friday night basement jam session for hip kids’ ears only. The lead vocal is casual, gentle and will mellow any listener out. Funky guitar playing is the key driving force of the entire album and keeps your foot tapping. Accenting the lead vocal are harmonies and background vocals that give the songs a finishing touch.
“It’s All Been Said” starts off the album by revealing the group’s personality through the combination of composition, ambiguous lyrics, and soft singing. The album’s most ethereal track, “Who,” sits on the borderline of trippy. “Sunday Dinner” is laid-back but exudes rebellion. Densmore and Irie get gritty in “Oregon Blues” with a soulful vocal line, honky-tonk guitar, and harmonica. The track pays homage to the distinguishably slick sound of the blues.
Quit Work Make Music is perfectly titled due to the tranquil mood of the album. You’ll find yourself dreading the demands of a productive day, and instead hoping for days of untroubled freedom. While abandoning your day job isn’t possible for most, at least we can listen along and escape for a bit.
In A Word: Peaceful
