For a band like The Immaculate Crows, which has been active for over four decades now, albeit with lineup changes, it has cultivated a dedicated fan base that deeply appreciates the authenticity and relatability of their lyrics. Their musical style is heavily eclectic, leaning towards multiple conventions such as psych and alternative rock, indie pop, alt-country, and even blues rock. In one instance, the band is unleashing a wild, untamed beast of blues rock that’ll grab your soul and refuse to let go, and in another, the band’s vocals and larger-than-life music hit you like a freight train, echoing through the air with a raw intensity that sends shivers down your spine.
While rock music can vary in quality, like any genre, some bands go above mediocrity and demonstrate a real flair. The Immaculate Crows’ “And Then There Were Two” gives you only a glimpse of how strong this band’s riveting performances are. Strap in and enjoy this captivating ride!
In its own ways, “Can’t You Hear Me Crying” is soothing right from the get-go. That blend of the harmonica, keys, bass, and guitar creates such an inviting intro that warms your heart. The guitars are charming, and the alluring foundation builds up to around 1:05, where the powerful lead and backing vocal harmonies breathe life to the song’s seemingly sad lyrical narrative that pertains to a heartbreak. The melody here is simply irresistible, with that memorable chorus taking up residence in your brain for the rest of the day!
“Modern Times” features yet another distinct intro that is hauntingly beautiful. The stunning guitars, piano, drums, and bass provide a captivating backdrop for the beautiful female lead vocals to thrive. There is just a way this beat makes you feel good and transports you to a completely different world altogether. The electric guitars further add that rock thrill to the arrangement. This seamless blend of instruments and expressive vocals makes this track a perfect candidate for a movie soundtrack.
“School of Hard Knocks” uses a storybook songwriting approach that is reminiscent of country. The harmonica, acoustic guitar, and sweet-sounding vocals put a listener right beside the band as the story unfolds. The lyrics pertain to a difficult upbringing that certainly hardens a person, making them smart and resilient, and they have been delivered from the lead singer’s POV. The electric guitar does well to add depth and textural range to an already outstanding masterpiece.
“New Girl” features both lead male and backing female vocals. It is lovely how they unite in a moment of vocal harmony, evoking a vocal ensemble, and tugging at the listener’s heartstrings with the depth of lyricism that is delightful, complemented by the skillful execution of the song.
“Dolly” unfurls with a vibrant melody. The powerfully charged guitars, the throbbing drums, and the piano make for such a cinematic soundscape that allures a listener like a siren. The female singer excels with her lead and backing vocal harmonies. The rich and immersive instrumentals all point towards a classic rocker with modern-day twists and flair!
It feels like from here it’s just a marathon because the track “Love Is Perverse” is just as lively and upbeat, if not more. This is the kind of beat that makes you want to dance in no time. The drums and electric guitar create a rhythmic pattern very much like rock ‘n roll with funky sensibilities, allowing you to dance with reckless abandon.
“Platonic Love” is another bona fide standout with an energetic instrumental foundation and charged lyrics over the thrilling electric guitars and drums. This is a total banger that makes its mark again and again, and it is emotional as well.
Tell you what? There is so much more to savor in this remarkable album. To scratch your musical itch with eclectic, deeply relatable, and exceptionally executed music from a band that clearly knows what they are doing, check out the link below.
Recommending this magnificent body of work to your friends, family members, and complete strangers is highly advised.