Robert Abernathy - Take a Swing (2019)

Robert Abernathy embraces a world of unbridled joy with the sunny “Take a Swing”. Done with the greatest level of compassion, Robert Abernathy’s album feels like a true celebration. Firmly anchored in the country tradition, Robert Abernathy draws from folk, rock, dream pop, and more in a mix that is uniquely his. Possessing a powerful reassuring voice his lyrics touch upon a true sense of Americana as he crafts careful, thoughtful worlds. Best of all is the true grit and soul that he highlights throughout the whole of the album, where each song feels akin to a chapter in a greater story.

Instrumentally rich, Robert Abernathy at times touches upon a cinematic flourish. The songs have such depth to them, courtesy of his attention to detail and the perfect way he builds these pieces up. While he draws from such unusual country sources like Lambchop, a group equally unconcerned with genre purity, he also takes a little bit from an older strain of pop. Highly thoughtful and full of vivid detail he makes sure that not a second of the album is wasted. Melodically dense the songs demand multiple listens to truly get a sense of his uncanny artistry.

“As Long As I Know” opens the album up strong. With a playful disposition the whole composition at times feels reminiscent of Randy Newman’s “You’ve Got A Friend In Me”, equally universalist in its approach. Spry rhythms jump through the whole of “Minnesota Bend”. The anticipation of “Take A Swing” comes from its steady drums, that grow in strength and power over the course of the track. Virtually made for toe-tapping is the sheer force of nature quality of “Runnin Leather Boots”. Easily the highlight of the album the song feels like an instant classic. Electronic flourishes intermingle on “That Girl”. Similarly, “You Can’t Have My Boat” continues on this neon-hued splendor, with a sun-drenched demeanor. Going for a full communal spirit is the shimmering finale of “Don’t Take Me Serious”.