Shannon and the Clams’ latest offering, “The Moon Is in the Wrong Place,” unfolds with a poignant resonance, shaped by the profound loss of frontwoman Shannon Shaw’s fiancé, a cherished friend to the band, who tragically passed away before the album’s conception. Navigating the turbulent waters of grief, the band delivers a soul-stirring exploration of loss while staying true to their signature garage-soul sound. Collaborating once again with producer Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, the album pulsates with raw emotion, juxtaposed against surprisingly lively instrumentals.
“Big Wheel” exemplifies this fusion of sorrow and vigor, with its infectious garage rock vibes veiling poignant lyrics like “Big wheel’s not coming back,” penned by guitarist Cody Blanchard. It’s a testament to the collective impact of the loss on both Shaw and the band.
Slowing the tempo, “Real or Magic,” penned by Shaw, emerges from a dream where her late fiancé appears bathed in light. Her ethereal vocals, accompanied by a shimmering instrumental backdrop, evoke the dreamlike haze Shaw sings about.
Opening the album with “The Vow,” Shaw’s heartfelt tribute to her late partner, originally intended as a wedding surprise, now resonates with bittersweet poignancy. Lines like “It feels like it’s over / but forever you’re mine” take on new depth in the shadow of loss.
Yet amidst the sorrow, “Bean Fields” emerges as a spirited ode to cherished memories, inspired by a trip to Haener’s family farm. This lively track, accompanied by a whimsical music video featuring dancing grasshoppers, offers a much-needed reprieve from the album’s weighty themes.
Throughout “The Moon Is in the Wrong Place,” Shannon and the Clams deftly navigate the delicate balance between grief and resilience. They deliver their most mature work to date, retaining the raw charm of their garage rock roots while delving into profound emotional depths. – Jason Felton