David Grubbs
The Thicket

★★★★

Grubbs comes through with one of his first releases after leaving Gastr Del Sol. Although this is mostly a solo endeavor, it keeps many of the stylistic traits of that famous Chicago duo. I enjoy the simple and minimal arrangements at points, and even the addition of the horn section on songs like "Amleth's Gambit". Grubbs and his somewhat awkward singing is present throughout almost all the songs and he's joined with Mary Lass Stewart on the song "Buried in the Wall", probably the choice song on this album. Tony Conrad is actually on this which was a surprise and it's obvious to see which tracks he is present on. Those two are "40 Words on "Worship"" and "On "Worship"". This is a pleasantly playful and folky release which travels across the boundaries of many different musical genres. 

Favorite Song: Buried in the Wall

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