Bye Bye Blackbirds – August Lightning Complex
The latest from Bye Bye Blackbirds is their sixth full length release. I can’t believe they’ve flown underneath my radar for so long given their history and past association with the late, great Rainbow Quartz label. Being a bit late to the party, I’m all the more excited at the discovery of the band’s August Lightning Complex. With this new one, the band melds a smorgasbord of influences and familiar sounds into a delicious listening experience.
The opening track, “Want Show As Young”, has a southern flair to it not unlike something you might have expected back in the day from The Band or pub rock favorites Brinsley Schwarz. By contrast, “Mechanics” has a distinctly REM flavor to it – Mitch Easter style guitar shimmer and layered harmonies make this one truly special.
“Don’t Wait” has the kind of crunch and impactful vocals that I really love. But the horns at the 1:56 mark – that’s the icing on the cake. They’re perfect. And while there are many single worthy tracks here, “Favorite Stars” has to be the cut of choice for me.
Get By Bye Blackbird’s August Lightning Complex
One last food analogy – you can pre-order your own copy of The Bye Bye Blackbirds’ August Lightning Complex at their Bandcamp page. The release date is March 4. If you need an appetizer in the meantime, there are five earlier albums for you to sample. I know I will.