There’s just something so honest about Alexander Wren’s newest release “Full Time Blues.” From front to back, the instrumentation, production, singing, and songwriting all just feel so natural and intentional at the same time. The classic Wurlitzer piano sound sets the perfect backdrop for a groovy sarcastic working-class anthem complete with thumping bass and gospel choir backup singers. The triumph of the mix and effects are most notable in Wren’s breath-heavy vocal delivery. A lot of people nowadays will edit the breaths out from the vocal track, but when you hear someone this emotive and in control, it feels like part of the performance. Just add a little tape echo and you’ve got something truly expressive and musical. “Full Time Blues” just has that infectious feel and relatable lyricism that’ll have you coming back for more a few times over.Â
