I’ve had this review in my head for a long while now, Trying to figure out how I would describe what I thought of the Blue Skies For Black Hearts release This Black Heart is Gonna Break, and still I’m still struggling with it. I think the root of my indecision lies in the fact that the record isn’t exceptionally good, but it isn’t exceptionally bad either. This record meanders around the middle, something that you might put on every now and again to fill in the noiseless void in your space.
Blue Skies For Black Hearts has that acoustic fronted sound so many bands take to heart, but staples of instrumentation like bass, drums, and maybe even an additional guitar just don’t back it up. Those instruments are on the record, but blips and beeps and other assorted sounds are more common and make up the majority of the record’s music.
It isn’t a bad record to put on when you might not be able to decide what to listen to. The lull tempo that is carried through most of the record is something one can enjoy from time to time. There are resemblances to Calexico, Cat Power, and even The Decemberists (mostly on all these bands most recent releases), but unlike the aforementioned powerhouses This Black Hearts is Gonna Break isn’t going to drop you on your ass.
1. The Sun Will Shine
2. NYC LA PDX
3. Blue Skies For Blue Eyes
4. Not the Same
5. Everything's Gonna Be Alright
6. Your Old Home
7. Truth and Love
8. This Black Heart is Gonna Break
9. Holly and Vine
10. I've Been Crying
11. 90 Days in LA
12. Open Heart Surgery