The Dust Collectors - Outside In (2023)

The Dust Collectors are an alternative folk band from Calgary, Alberta. After years of playing separately in different bands, the four long-time friends quickly moved from garage jams to song-writing. By Winter 2018, they were recording demos and playing shows around the local Calgary circuit and haven't stopped since (except maybe for a pandemic).

The group approach songwriting as a collaborative effort. With each member coming from different places of influence, the result is a blend of country, folk, blues and rock. What truly sets this band apart is that each member contributes vocally; seamless four-part harmonies have become the signature of their sound. The end product is both bitter and sweet to the listener's ears, bringing to mind collectives like Fleet Foxes and CSNY.

Calgary, Canada folk-rock band The Dust Collectors has had a busy year so far. Hot on the heels of two EP releases, The Dust Collector has unveiled the ultimate culmination of their hard work, the debut full-length album Outside In, via Neon Moon Records.

The fourteen-track release features tracks from both of the previous EPs, Filtered Gems and Hanlon’s Razor, as well as two new songs, “Bad Talk” and “Shoulder Season.”

Beginning the release, “Shoulder Season” bursts in with a catchy melody and evocative imagery. The song takes listeners on a journey of emotional introspection and heartfelt lyrics, which create a poignant and relatable listening experience, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of anticipation and the journey of self-discovery.

“Here’s Hoping” immediately draws attention to the theme of surrendering to the pressures of consumerism and conformity. The lively and infectious chorus heightens the emotional impact of the themes throughout the track, including the longing for escape. The repetition of “Here’s hoping, eyes open, coins falling down to the floor” serves as a bittersweet mantra, reflecting a glimmer of hope amidst a situation that feels inescapable. The delivery and carefully crafted phrasing of the lyrics evoke a shared sense of frustration, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced similar sentiments.

“Bad Times” leans toward the alt-country side of things, with a slight twangy feel intertwining with the folk-rock vibe. The emotive lyrics combined with the compelling melody create an enjoyable listening experience while resonating with listeners on an emotional level. With its compelling combination of heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies, “Bad Times” offers an enjoyable musical voyage that resonates on both an artistic and emotional level.

Even though I was familiar with the majority of these songs, experiencing them as a cohesive album brought forth a distinct and transformative experience. The masterfully crafted release showcases the remarkable talents of the band. With its captivating melodies, introspective lyrics, and powerful vocal harmonies, the album leaves a lasting impression.