Read our review of Maudlin Days by Ocean Carolina
Michael Simone is the songwriter, guitarist and singer of indie-rock band Ocean Carolina. Now based in Brooklyn New York, Simone is originally from North Carolina – Raleigh and Chapel Hill.
The latest release Maudlin Days (Old Hand Record Company) is a follow-up to the well-received first album All the Way Home (2012).
The band seems to form and re-form but Simone and his life-long friend bass player Alex Cox are the common threads. Joining the pair on Maudlin Days are accomplished New York musicians Jon Graboff (guitar and pedal steel), Dave Wanamaker (guitar) and drummer Tony Leone.
The new album has got a 70’s rock feel about it – The Byrds and Tom Petty come to my mind – but it clearly sits in the now. The production is impeccable and, while the whole album was recorded in only eleven days (Graboff was the producer), it has a polish and precision to it that impresses. Driving rhythm guitar lays the alluring foundation, upon which Simone’s world-weary voice, the subtle lead guitar and gilt-edged harmonies add delightful embellishment. Have a listen to the opening track “All I Can Do”:
https://soundcloud.com/old-hand-record-company/all-i-can-do
The first single “If It Burns Out Bright” has an official video:
Immensely likable, with depth and a lyrical honesty, Maudlin Days is one of the best albums I’ve heard this year. Have a listen and crank it up.
Read our review of Maudlin Days by Ocean Carolina
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