Though you'll hear the comparisons, The Rural Alberta Advantage is not Neutral Milk Hotel. Just because singer Nils Edenloff sometimes hits that nasally register of Jeff Mangum doesn't mean they are NMH redux; and if you are out there looking for a new NMH, just stop.
With that said, The Rural Alberta Advantage will appeal to fans of Neutral Milk Hotel. They are lo-fi in the same vein and have a similar restlessness hidden in their songs. One thing that makes them unique is the relentless percussion provided by Paul Banwatt (can't wait to see him keep this up live) throughout the record. Just listen to "Don't Haunt this Place" below. Each song seems to build around incessantly wonderful banging around. On top of that, Edenloff and female counterpart Amy Cole occasionally trade lines, and their limited voices beautifully compliment each other.
The energy on this record is enveloping, but that immediacy is well balanced with the more contemplative moments that reinforce the album's theme of growing up in rural Alberta, Canada. It's quick pace and perfect length easily lends itself to repeated listening. The TEAM just can't get enough of this record.
Recommended If You Like:
Neutral Milk Hotel, your favorite indie folkies, Bon Iver, Sufjan, Plants and Animals, Microphones if they were high on speed, nostalgic reflection, and pints of 5-Hour Energy
Looks Like:
a hyperactive kid in an amusement park.
Feels Like:
a smile on your face.
Smells Like:
a house party full of college radio DJs.
Listen to When:
when you want something high energy, but not necessarily loud guitars.
Vinyl the Cat Says:
When this is played in the store, I stay away from the plant. I don't want to get kicked out while this is bumpin'.
The Rural Alberta Advantage will be at The Beachland on August 26th
Available on CD and LP
Rural Alberta Advantage - Don't Haunt this Place
Rural Alberta Advantage - Frank, AB |
