Auld
Lang Syne
‘Kokopelli’
Self-released
Auld
Lang Syne may be itinerant, but the incomparable duo
will always be a Rochester band to me. Set for release on October 20, “Kokopelli” is Auld Lang Syne’s
latest batch of exquisitely crafted indie folk songs, and it’s a consummate
return to form. Last year’s album “Positively Phototactic”
had an odd and edgy infusion, of pop, rock, and soul; 2015’s “Last of the Honey
Bees” was an elaborate, if somewhat austere masterpiece of choral folk.
On “Kokopelli,” Auld Lang Syne drops
any sense of pretension with a set of simply arranged songs overflowing with
warmth. There’s also a lyrical optimism that’s not always present in Kathy and
Timothy Dick’s songs, and a renewed musical energy that recalls ALS gems like
“My First Soul” and “Where My Fortune Lies.” Self-produced and mastered by Sam
Snyder, the album has great sonic balance, with a wonderfully full, acoustic
guitar-driven sound at the fore. Charming group vocals and the prominent use
of banjo bends the music toward Americana. The vibe is organic and elemental,
as suggested by such winning tracks as “Seed,” “Dirt,” and “Water.” “Kokopelli” should excite long-time Auld Lang Syne fans while enticing new listeners.
Auld
Lang Syne will play two CD release shows in
Rochester: Thursday, October 25, 7:30 p.m. at Abilene Bar and Lounge, 153
Liberty Pole Way, $5; Friday, October 26, 8 p.m. at The Little Café, 240 East
Avenue, free.
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This article appears in Oct 17-23, 2018.
