By Jess Alatorre | April 7th, 2010
When I write reviews, I always like to give the music a few listens before writing about it. Preferably, I find the best way to focus on a whole album, versus just a few songs, is to let it play while I go about my daily life. That way, if there’s anything that catches my attention, pulls me out of my task, and makes me think, “What song is this?”, I know I’ve found a gem.
I reviewed the Broadcast 2000 EP months ago, which meant I definitely recognized more than a couple songs on the debut self-titled full-length album. Yet, in the middle of my listening (on the first round) a couple of songs suddenly burst from my speakers with emotion and exuberance.
Multitalented singer-songwriter Joe Steer is the main guy behind this music. He uses computer-generated looping to build lush arrangements with various acoustic instruments. The result? A smattering of folk, acoustic, indie musical layering. While in the past Steer played all the instruments, and then layered, this time he enlisted the help of violinist Tom Hobden of Noah and the Whale. His live shows feature a full live band, to recreate the songs he first composed.
For an album that can be a little on the reflective side, there was something strong pulling me in. The songs “I hold my breath” and “Gonna build a mountain” were that something extra. While the melodies and instruments bring you in, it’s the emotion that really stands out. During “I hold my breath” I felt like too was waiting for the answer- should he stand or runaway.
Washington D.C.’s spring has definitely sprung, and after months of being buried in snow, it’s nice to put away those salt-stained shoes and switch them out for summer sandals. This is how I feel about Broadcast 2000. While winter might make me yearn for brooding bands like Radiohead, Spring calls for a joyful hello. The full string arrangements, the glockenspiel, ukulele and the melodies make this album delightful. I’m ready for those calm warm spring days, breeze brushing through the trees, Steer’s mellow hums filling the air.
“The Outsider Steps Inside” is a knockout. It rounds out the album beautifully, leaving us wanting more. It won’t be the summer anthem, but you can hear all the instruments as they delicately play their role, the lyrics getting stuck in your head.
