The Pale Blue Eyes' latest album "This House" is a vibrant tribute to cherished moments and the resolve to forge ahead amidst grief. The creative force behind the album, Matt Board, leads the band in a journey through the cherished memory lane of their familial home depicted on the album cover - a place pulsating with the joy of life and the pang of loss.
A period of intense grieving followed the passing of Matt's mother, a heartache all too familiar having lost his father five years earlier. The home reverberated with memories, as though each room carried a fragment of the family's soul, a repository of precious moments both joyous and painful.
The creation of "This House" came at a crossroads, marking the end of an era and the start of another. It was an initiative spearheaded not only by Matt but also by the steadfast support of his spouse and bandmate, Lucy Board. Together with bassist Aubrey Simpson, they channeled their tumultuous emotions into an eclectic mix of melodies, celebrating life while acknowledging the pain of loss.
Lucy's expertise with the synthesizer and Matt's vocal prowess intertwine perfectly in this work, offering a soothing embrace in the melancholic depths of tracks like 'Sister' and 'More'. Yet, it's not all sorrow and longing, as the album reverberates with moments of unrestrained joy, a testimony to the band's resolve to find light in the darkness, to revel in the here and now, cherishing the bonds that remain unbroken.
As they left behind their cherished Penquit Mill home studio, a haven secluded in the tranquil embrace of the English countryside, the band carried with them the spirit of resilience and joy. The relocation wasn't just a physical move but a journey of rediscovery, taking the first steps in a world echoing with the richness of the past and the vibrant promise of the future.
The album exudes a rich tapestry of sounds, influenced heavily by Lucy's passion for South Yorkshire's synth innovation and Aubrey's fondness for Motown and funk rhythms. Each track carries its personality, from the effervescent joy captured in 'Simmering' and 'Hang Out' to the heartrending depth of emotions portrayed in 'Underwater'. They masterfully encapsulate the human experience in a series of auditory narratives, intertwining moments of bliss and sorrow in a delicate dance of melodies.
Matt draws from the deep well of experiences, offering a poignant yet hopeful narrative through a masterful blend of vocals, resonating with both the pain of loss and the joy of remembering. Each song is a mosaic of influences, with a blend of pop hooks and psychedelic rock sophistication, showcasing a mature understanding of life's intricate dance between joy and sorrow.
The album stands as a mature sibling to their debut LP "Souvenirs," showcasing a deeper understanding of life's intricacies. Critics praise it, weaving a narrative of elation and sorrow, of fond recollections, and forward-looking aspirations. It is a journey facilitated by the harmonious collaboration with Dean Honer, who lent his expertise to bring out a sound both fresh and reminiscent of various influences.
The craftsmanship of Pale Blue Eyes has created an auditory landscape where memories reside, where grief finds a voice, and where joy dances freely. It's a testament to resilience, a celebration of life in all its hues, affirming the band's belief in the healing power of music. The journey through "This House" offers listeners a path to catharsis, inviting them to find joy in the simple moments, to honor the past while stepping forward with hope into the future.
https://paleblueeyesmusic.bandcamp.com/album/this-house?fbclid=IwAR2iBC51V4ur0SQiMulPhb-YelEAmI8Sx57kTBDSloifSeaIoIWBEZ4RgXM
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_lYfFHM0gxNWYk2H9TGB2ea-SJ-siI5ORk
