Dark Developments

I was already familiar with Elf Power, who had a break-through album earlier this year called In A Cave, so I was really interested in checking out their contribution to Dark Developments. What surprised me even more is that you can hear them playing backup on this record – and not only that but they will be going on tour with Chesnutt to promote the record.

I haven’t heard of Chesnutt, but apparently the guy’s really famous. He’s been releasing music since the mid 80s, then went solo with the help of Michael Stipe in the early 90s.

Anyway, as the album title suggests, this album is a little darker toned… than say Elf Power’s music, which I think has much to do with Chesnutt’s vocals over Elf Power’s more friendlier indie pop sound of Andrew Rieger (although he is listed on the liner notes as ‘singing’ – along with all the collaborators).

Some reviewers calling this album’s sound harkening to Lou Reed. I think this is only true on some of the songs, especially “The Mad Passion of the Stoic”. If you look at something like “And How”, it obviously is a little more upbeat- possibly Elf Power’s influence on this song.

However, I think my favorite song on here is the not-very-radio-friendly song called “Little F**ker”. It’s fast and it’s rude, and I love it.

Dark Developments was just released last Tuesday on Orange Twin Records.

Elf Power-Spiral Stairs

On another topic altogether, I did enjoy the cover artwork by Terry Rowlett. Upon first glance, you would think this was from the 14^th century, but it’s actually by a modern artist. The painting is called “Through the Garden” and was painted in 2002.

Also, bonus song is Elf Power’s “Spiral Stairs”. Enjoy!