S.G. Goodman
Planting By The Signs
**** out of *****
The newest offering from singer/songwriter S.G. Goodman, Planting Signs, looks deep into her home territory of Western Kentucky with a collection of weepy folk/American tunes. Goodman mixes story songs, sweet love offerings and tunes of sadness as she mourns the passing of time and friends.
A large influence on Planting Signs was the death of Goodman's dog Howard and her mentor Mike Harmon who she discussed the albums themes with. Those themes of rural southern practices and customs seep into the songs imbibing them with a mysterious touch. After Harmon's passing Goodman reconnected with long time collaborator Mark Rowan as the multi-instrumentalist helped inspired the overall tone of the record.
Musically the core of the album is, S.G. Goodman: Vocals, Guitar, Keys Matthew Rowan: Guitar, Keys, Bass, Vocals Matt Pence: Drums and Percussion Craig Burletic: Bass Ben Tanner: Keys. A few guests also join the proceedings as the songs all sway, swell and twang, tending to increase instrumentation as lyrical tales roll out.
Opener "Satellite" pairs thumping drums with ominous riffs as the washy sounds and cool tones build slowly. Goodman gets a bit playful with "Fire Sign" as the folk rock becomes a bit dance ready while she sings about the sun shining on the same dogs ass everyday. The vibrating "I Can See The Devil" and the off-kilter groove of "Michael Told Me" both continue that sense of sadness and longing that is haunting this record like an old curse.
The album centerpiece is "Snapping Turtle" which goes cinematic and plays like an affecting indie film about small town America. There are dreamy guitars, synths, a nice beat and tales from Goodman that place the listener in her rural backyard with exacting precision. The track sounds lived in an personal yet shines a light on a feeling and place that not all experience.
Goodman can also go lighter as the more sweet and delicate "Solitaire" is one of a couple good love songs. "Heat Lighting" is an easy swelling love tune that samples southern folks to end while "I'm In Love" also is in this vein but continues the thematic haunting tone of the album. A pair of duets "Nature's Child (feat. Bonnie "Prince" Billy)" and the title track with Rowan, are southern historical celebration efforts.
While both duets highlight Goodman's vocals, her best singing is saved for the finale. The long travelog "Heaven's Song", is a wandering tale that builds and finds Goodman closing the album with the most passionate singing on the record.
Overall, Planting Signs from S.G. Goodman is a wistful journey, drifting on an undercurrent of sadness that floats through it all, like being in deep Appalachia in the dark of night.
No comments:
Post a Comment