Local Record Review: 'Anything, Alone' by Moostache

Moostache

Huntington Beach four-piece Moostache have just released their anticipated album entitled, Anything, Alone. Featuring 11 tracks produced locally by Jon O'Brien (including 2 bonus tracks produced by Billy Mohler and Jimmy Messer), the album is nothing short of exuberant. Right out of the gate, the impressive range and vocal control of Patrick Wardell is thrust into the spotlight full force with "Guarded Place." Comparable to a tranquil version of The Mars Volta frontman Cedric Bixler-Zavala, it might take some getting used to depending on your musical tastes. Either way, the controlled chaos that is Wardell's vocals is astounding and not over-bearing through out the remainder of the album.

Reminiscent of Wilco and The Shins, tracks such as "Everything as it Was" and "Future Perfect" exude a calm, yet spastic feel without going over board and creating a hot mess in your headphones. It is refreshing to experience an album in which the tracks collectively flow without becoming redundant. The melodies are catchy and the lyrics are clever and "hipster approved". Described as "definitely the most energetic album I've ever produced..." by producer Jon O'Brien, "I feel like we did an incredible job capturing the current vibe of the band while at the same time trying some new stuff to push the band forward". Read more of my interview with Jon O'Brien on recording with Moostache here: http://blogs.ocweekly.com/heardmentality/2012/04/local_music_producer_jon_obrie.php

After a stint on the road with AWOLNATION this past April, Moostache is ready to take their music to the next level. The release of Anything, Alone is surely the perfect start to a bright future for this wolf pack of songsters. Catch them live this Thursday, May 17th at The Constellation Room with Henry Clay People and Max and the Moon.

Download Anything, Alone: http://moostache.bandcamp.com/