Elder Jarcho embraces a classic pop perfection on the passionate “Stella”. Sung with such emotion the lyricism possesses its own unique poetry for every verse has a keen balance to it. Rhythms go for an easy-going groove sun drenched and splendid in their demeanor. Instrumentally rich the incorporation of horns, piano, guitar, truly everything lends it a magnificent hue. The stylistic variation means that Elder Jarcho constantly surprises while maintaining an infinite catchiness. Psychedelic pop of the late 60s, wonderful heartfelt balladry that recalls Christopher Owen’s group Girls, with hints of jazz thrown in for good measure results in a fully immersive experience.
Based out of Los Angeles, California, Elder Jarcho’s influences include the laid-back quality of Albert Hammond featuring honeyed melodies ringing through with crystal clarity. His vocals draw from the earnest delivery of Elvis Costello. The arrangements have a quirky yet urbane spirit that brings some of Jon Brion’s tasteful and timeless works. Layer upon layer is filtered into the fray featuring a tremendous ornate quality, as evolution of the sound from track to track means that the listener is taken on a highly personal journey.
A giddy glow introduces the album on a high note with the sprawling scope of “Miles & Miles & Miles”. The cosmic sheen of the ambient synthesizer that comes in on the latter half helps to heighten the tension of the work. Such grandiose spaciousness works wonders on the reflective “It’s Not over (It’s Not Done)”. Here his piano playing feels unparalleled as it builds and builds until it washes over the listener. By far the very center of the album rests with the autumnal mood of “October”. Within this singular piece he brings a bit of dream pop into the mix as the piece sweeps through with a symphonic quality. Flaming Lips circa “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots” era defines the tender tones of the electronic “Damsel in Distress”.
Surreal with a somber edge “Palm Hotel” offers an incredibly personal vision, one that features such vulnerability. An updated take on the spaghetti western rolls on through the twang of “The Only One” for he strips things down to the absolute essentials. Kaleidoscopic colors weave themselves together on the vast tapestry that is “Dear Engineer” for his vocals have a plaintive plea to them. Neatly tying all that came before it together is the anthemic “Jarcho”.
Done with the greatest degree of taste and style, Elder Jarcho crafts his own unique sonic universe on the powerful “Stella”.
