Not a record likely to benefit from the seasonal record
store gift rush, this debut album from an
LA duo is too intensely sad to be bought as anything more than an
intimate self-indulgence. As such, it
provides moments as moving as they are morose in the shape of singer/bassist Jeff Martin’s rich, dolorous tenor
and the sculptured power-chords of guitarist John Berry, rolling by like
storm clouds on a darkening horizon. Such
gorgeous, grim sadness becomes weirdly wholesome
and satisfying at times, as on the patiently paced, slowly building and
bleakly beautiful Skyscrape
or the brisker, almost sprightly Save.
Economically arranged and beautifully
produced, it’s taken Idaho the best part of seven years to commit their
music to record. Maybe next time around someone will throw them a party.
*** David Roberts