Woods has been one of the most consistent bands over the past decade, releasing one solid lo-fi psych-folk record after another on lead vocalist/songwriter Jeremy Earl’s Woodsist label. That being said, Woods usually never deviates far from their roots. While Woods has never dropped a downright bad album, the band has certainly become predictable. Or so I thought. Woods new record, City Sun Eater in the River of Light (review comin’ soon, maybe) is Woods’ most adventurous and experimental record to date. Here, Woods explores some new territory, with prevalent reggae and jazz influences. “Can’t See It All” is a prime example of this stylistic shift, and the results are fantastic. Like any Woods song, lead singer Jeremy Earl delivers his vocals in his instantly recognizable falsetto. The wah-wah lead guitar and organ with gentle vibrato that kick off the track are uncharacteristic for Woods, but are very welcome changes. The organs give this track a dubby feel, reminiscent of Lee Perry or The Upsetters, and the creeping, ominous synth lead is almost Residents-like. This is a much more electrified, inspired, and ambitious song for Woods: textured, vibrant, psychedelic and catchy. Dig it.
Song of the Day: Woods – Can’t See It All
