Blood Harmony Records – Release Date: 4/28/23
Earlier this year, Dave Hause released his sixth full-length, Drive It Like It’s Stolen. Hause has described the record as “post-apocalyptic Americana” and this term couldn’t be more spot-on, as many of the songs describe a dystopian future that isn’t far removed from the current state of America. The album’s first song, “Cheap Seats (New Years Day, NYC, 2042),” is quick to set the stage, utilizing a sparse arrangement, (only keyboards, a drum machine and vocals) to depict a society on the brink of collapse. It’s almost like Hause’s farewell to a way of life that can no longer be sustained. The song’s highpoint comes during its final minute, when the full band kicks-in with some serious Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers vibes.
“Pedal Down” continues the storyline, illustrating a hasty exodus for a presumably safer, more remote location. There’s a beautiful section where the dust settles and it’s just vocals and piano. Then the drums and added percussion crop up, helping to tie everything together. (“Is anyone out there? Is this thing on? / The temple is sacked and the healers are gone / You’ll turn into a pillar of salt if you dare turn around”). The mood shifts with the next entry, “Damn Personal,” which is one of the most rousing, catchiest songs that Hause has ever written. It contrasts upbeat instrumentation with somber lyrics, and really hits home if you’ve ever lost a close friend unexpectedly. It definitely pulls at the heartstrings, but ultimately celebrates great memories shared with a friend who’s gone too soon.
“Low” is a proficiently-crafted pop song that employs a slight country influence to examine a partner’s loyalty, while “Hazard Lights” features slightly comedic lyrics that add a bit of levity to a tempting situation. The latter addresses Hause’s sobriety and is yet another example of his innate ability to write about deeply personal matters, but do so in a way that it’s relatable for most anyone. (“Let me get you home, I’m weakest on the weekend / My Bambi knees are knocking, my thirst is steady creeping / I can’t turn you down, I can’t be alone / So I’m hearing you out with the hazard lights on”).
The title track is moody and groove-oriented, and deals with the battle that we’re all in against Father Time. It centers around Hause’s unique vocal delivery and the chorus evokes imagery of a hazy California sunset. The hook also reflects one of the album’s primary themes, the fact that there’s no turning back and that we shouldn’t fear an unknown future, but rather embrace it.
Catch Dave Hause this Friday, October 6th at Space in Evanston. He’ll be celebrating the tenth anniversary of Devour at this show and plans to play the album in its entirety, (along with other songs as well). Doors open at 7:00 PM and tickets are available here.
