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Thesoundswontstop
  • The Sounds Won't Stop
  • New And Notable
  • Submit Your Music
  • Fresh Weekly

Jefferson Hyll

Dark

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Dark is an album by Jefferson Hyll that fans of Americana will love. The album has a timeless rock quality but I would say a majority of this music felt very ’90s in a good way. In my opinion the ’90s were arguably the most prolific time for rock bands.

 

The album got to it fast with “Radio Nights” which sounded like a single that would get played on the radio.One thing I thought was done very well was the use of synths. It sounds great with the guitar which is hard to pull off with an Americana sounding song. The star of the show however is the vocals. I found Hyll’s voice to be very appealing with some hope in there but it also contains some melancholy. I love that combo.

 

There’s some gorgeous atmosphere on “If I Sleep” which showcases some stellar songwriting. Everything seems to hit right on this song. It’s full of heart and again I really enjoyed the vocals. The title track “Dark” is a misty and cerebral sounding song. I thought the lyrics fit perfectly with the mood. When he sings “It’s going to get dark” you certainly feel it. 

 

“The Seven Seas” is a fun one and a barn burner of sorts. It’s jovial and another song that felt like it could be a single. The song builds in a natural way leading to a satisfying hook. “City Inside” might be my personal favorite track. It has a similar misty and melancholy vibe but perhaps more nostalgia. I thought the bridge leading to the chorus was fantastic.

 

“Human Heart” felt graceful but perhaps the most somber moment on the album. It’s also quite beautiful. That leads into a more kinetic song entitled “Stars” which goes into an even more energetic song entitled “Window Of Time.” The atmosphere washes over you on “Crying for Love (For Chet Baker)” where another pensive moment arrives. “Black Car from Avalon” sounds great right after it because the energy ramps back up. “Heart’s A Riddle” is a mid-energy type of song where Hyll plays into his strengths. “Hold That Thought, Hold Me Tighter” is a fitting ending, wrapping a lot of the emotions that are explored on this album.

 

I thought this album was exceptional and needs more attention. I encourage you to spin this and share it with others.

 

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