The opening cut from The Delines’ gentle new record The Imperial is titled “Cheer Up Charley.” however it sure ain’t cheery. “Cheer up Charley, you know, your wife, she ain’t coming back. as well as I understand she left you flat…And you’re utilizing up all your vacation days on a task you’ll never get back…” as well as yet, the music isn’t depressing at all. It has a smooth 1970s vibe, simple sway, and, hey, if I was Charley it may really applaud me up. A little. In a realistic way.
And that’s the album. It’s not sad, however it’s slow. It’s not a bummer, however it’s serious. It’s about tragedy. It’s about failure as well as pain.
The Delines’ lead singer was sidelined by a cars and truck wreck, so hearing Amy Boon sing about loss as well as healing makes overall sense. The band, which is made up of members of Richmond Fontaine band as well as The Minus 5, are completely fit for the mood. The tunes almost feel like they’re written by late 1970s Van Morrison. particularly “Where Are You Sonny?”, one of my preferred cuts.
It’s simple soul, as well as it’s excellent. extremely recommended.
The Imperial by The Delines