[rating=8.00]
One of his generation’s most prolific artists, Ty Segall seems to be an endless well of creativity. He cannot be contained, and his latest release in a long string of them over the last decade proves he’s still got something to say. The self-titled record finds him continuing to mine his punk rock roots, while also dipping his toes in a pool of late 60s, early 70s rock. Ty Segall feels inspired by everything from The Beatles to Jethro Tull and David Bowie. It’s a little bit glam, and a little bit grunge.
As with most of his work, it’s a guitar-heavy album with mind-bending licks that will have you spiraling down after them just to see where they end up. Not unlike a master jazz improviser, Segall can take you on an unexpected journey, rich with texture and dimension. The most extreme version of this sound comes with the album’s 10-minute epic “Warm Hands (Freedom Returned)”, as it simmers and pops, wanders and sprints its way through a trippy psych-rock maze. It never outstays its welcome and keeps you guessing till the last note, even if you’re a little dazed.
Segall’s take on a classic pop tune comes with the brilliantly harmonious “Take Care (To Comb Your Hair)”, a sweet gem that occasionally gets rowdy, but is harnessed so well. It’s no surprise Segall’s contemporary and frequent collaborator Mikal Cronin, a master of pop songwriting himself, joins him on this standout. These two were made to play together.
“Break a Guitar” is Segall at his finest, writing an undeniably catchy hook and obscuring it in a sea of guitar until it becomes a vivid explosion. He manages to create a controlled chaos that never feels too overly groomed or polished, but also never turns into a mess. It is what makes Segall such a compelling artist. He builds it up, drops a bomb and leaves you spinning, wondering what hit you and instantly wanting another.
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