A.C. Newman of The New Pornographers fame has a new solo album, Shut Down The Streets. Recorded in Woodstock, New York and featuring Pornographers bandmate Neko Case on backing vocals, Shut Down The Streets shows a more intimate side to Newman’s songwriting, resulting in one of his most impressive and diverse albums to date. Ruminations on the birth of his son and the death of his mother lend a newfound sincerity in his songwriting as well, swapping out energetic jangly guitars for banjo and warped Farfisa organ. Standout cuts include: “I’m Not Talking,” “You Could Get Lost Out Here,” and the slow-burn closer “They Should Have Shut Down the Streets” which melds the chamber pop Newman is known for with a 60s/70s psychedelia vibe. Shut Down the Streets is as accessible as it is rewarding, and as refreshingly idiosyncratic as it is revealing all the while showcasing Newman’s crafty songwriting and clever melodies. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Beulah, Divine Fits, The Helio Sequence, The New Pornographers, Spoon, Zumpano