Perfect balance of chill and energetic

Eric Bachmann is no stranger to the world of alternative music, and he makes that clear in his latest release No Recover. Releasing music since 1993 means releasing nearly 20 albums through various associated acts, and this new solo release acts as a great addition to Bachmann’s lengthy discography.

“Jaded Lover, Shady Drifter,” the opening track on No Recover, has a unique feel to it in that it feels nostalgic, yet futuristic all at the same time. This track does a particularly good job of highlighting the talent Bachmann possesses in his vocals, which makes for some easy listening. There is something simplistic about the composition of this song that is refreshing, especially for the start of an album.

The chill vibes continue in “Murmuration Song,” and while it possesses a fairly chill vibe, it is also oddly energetic. The harmonies throughout the song are enough to make anyone stop and really listen to this track. The other great thing about this track is that each time you stop and really listen to it, you are sure to find something else small, yet beautiful, that you like about the composition. Once you are done listening to this one on repeat, you can find even more strong tracks on the album.

“Yonah” marks about the halfway point in the album and it serves as a nice interlude-esque track. It is easy to close your eyes and really just listen to the delicacies in both the guitar work and the simplicity of the vocals echoing in the background. If this track were to be described in one word, “pretty” would definitely do it justice. Listening to it might make you think of scenes of beautiful flower fields and things of the like.

The title track for the album may seem a little too chill, but it perfectly sums up the album in which it shares a name. Bachmann’s clear and pleasing vocals are still the center of attention, much like how the album started, and this track also brings together the echoey elements of the tracks on the album that seem to stray from the norm. “No Recover” takes everything that is pleasing from other tracks on the album and puts it all into one song.

It is easy to say that the album closes with as much chill energy as it opened with. Once again, it is just Bachmann’s vocals and an acoustic guitar, making for a pretty strong duo. Although the entirety of the album is fairly slow and chill vibes, overall it is a solid album that anyone will enjoy listening to, no matter the setting.