Quaint Delusions’ latest album, ‘Anything Real?‘, takes listeners on a mesmerizing journey through a unique blend of rock, folk, and an array of other sonic textures. Across its 13 tracks, the album pulses with the spirit of a band unafraid to experiment with sound while holding tightly to their roots. Right from the opening track, “Killing What I Can’t Even See,” the band sets a tone that is unorthodox yet comforting, layering unexpected elements like descending cello lines and a loose, psychedelic vibe that evokes a late-Beatles era energy. It’s as if the band took a snapshot of Austin in the ’70s, fusing the energy of rednecks, jocks, hippies, and cosmic cowboys all coming together in a wild, rollicking jam session.
“Mr Chaos,” following the opening track, quickly shifts gears with its raucous, dissonant energy. The guitar work here is gritty and bold, paired with rhythms that err on the side of chaos, yet it’s this very unpredictability that makes the song so compelling. The vocals dance around the erratic beats, infusing a sense of urgency that propels the track forward. This kind of balance between control and wild abandon is a theme that continues throughout the album, providing the listener with moments of both chaos and clarity.
One of the album’s standout moments comes in the form of “Lite Brite Sky,” where Quaint Delusions takes a step back from the grit and dives into something more playful and whimsical. The track features hypnotic organs, twangy guitars, and an overall vibe that feels light and carefree. The lyrics, “sleep tight under lite brite sky,” offer an invitation to let go of the weight of the world, as if the song itself is a lullaby for the restless soul. It’s a moment of serenity amidst the album’s otherwise vibrant and chaotic soundscapes.
The intensity picks up again with “Anti-Lover,” where the band delivers a glam-rock groove that’s as catchy as it is bold. The shimmering guitars and driving rhythms push the song into a playful, yet defiant space. The track feels like a fresh take on the genre, leaning into the theatrical and exuberant qualities of glam rock but with a distinctive Quaint Delusions twist. The song’s upbeat energy creates a stark contrast to the mellower, more reflective moments found elsewhere on the album, showcasing the band’s ability to shift tones and moods seamlessly.
Midway through the album, “In The Morning” stands out as a testament to the band’s skilful fusion of folk-rock and vintage-rock influences. With jangling guitars and lush vocal harmonies, the song evokes the spirit of Neil Young and Crazy Horse, yet it maintains the band’s distinctive identity. The track carries a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of early morning walks in a fog-covered field, the kind of song that both soothes and energizes, with a gentle yet insistent drive that never feels too rushed.
As the album progresses, tracks like “Postal Blowfish” and “Vexing #9” delve into different facets of rock. The former injects a wacky, garage-rock energy, reminiscent of Elvis Costello’s mid-70s work, while “Vexing #9” showcases a more experimental side of the band. Pulsing with angular rhythms and jagged melodies, the track is a heady mix of tension and release, forcing listeners to engage with every note as it twists and turns unpredictably. It’s this kind of adventurous spirit that keeps ‘Anything Real?‘ fresh, as the band refuses to settle into any one genre or style.
The album draws to a close with “Anything Real?” a haunting piano ballad that comes as a surprising yet fitting conclusion. The gentle piano melodies paired with heartfelt lyrics create an intimate atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the energetic, chaotic tracks earlier in the album. It’s a beautiful moment of vulnerability that invites reflection, making it clear that Quaint Delusions is a band of sound,and also of emotion. With the final track, “Lite Brite Sky – Weg Mix,” a remix of the earlier track, the band offers a subtle, experimental variation, further proving their ability to keep things fresh and unpredictable until the very end.
Overall, ‘Anything Real?‘ by Quaint Delusions is a triumph of sonic exploration. The album weaves together a tapestry of rock, folk, glam, and garage influences, all while remaining uniquely their own. Whether it’s the experimental textures, the energetic grooves, or the tender ballads, the band demonstrates a remarkable ability to balance raw emotion with innovative musicianship. It’s a record that rewards multiple listens, with every spin uncovering something new and exciting. For anyone in search of a truly dynamic and multifaceted musical experience, ‘Anything Real?‘ is an album that delivers on its promise of authenticity and artistic depth.
Thank you Esfera Sonora for the very kind and insightful review of Anything Real? “…a triumph of sonic exploration” – we love it!! And we really appreciate it!!
Michael Starks/Quaint Delusions