Alberta Cross : 'Broken Side of Time'
Released: 21st September 2009
Label: Ark Recordings
New Yorkers Alberta Cross had an unenviable task after their mini EP/album The Thief And The Heartbreaker, they had to follow it up. The 7 song EP was immaculate; melodic and edgy americana had never sounded so good. Well, until Broken Side Of Time came along, their debut long-player. Only two songs make it from the EP onto Broken Side Of Time which means there are eight new songs to immerse yourself in.
The two that did, 'The Thief And The Heartbreaker' and 'Old Man Chicago' get a slight tweak in the production department but are as whiskey soaked as before. They've gained more grit and growl but the choruses are as impeccable as ever.
Singing guitarist Petter Ericson Stakee's voice is as distinct as it is suited to their bluesy americana. Simply put, they're an even more melodic, less psych-y My Morning Jacket, but they're so much more on top. The Neil Young aspect is glaring, especially on Song 3Three Blues', the guitars soloing over one another to a rapturous climax. 'ATX' shows Kasabian how to do it, explosively powerful.
The obvious transition into a more plugged-in sound hasn't left their softer touches packed away, 'Ghost Of The City Life' is heartbreaking, hauntingly sincere. The lap steel, acoustic and piano supplement Stakee's breaking voice to leave the hairs on the back of your neck standing tall.
The rockier moments are heavier and darker than before, peaking from Southern distorted guitars and dropping down to soft acoustics all the while dragged along by the scruff of the neck by Stakee's incandescent melodies. Few bands can make a chorus stand out as well as Alberta Cross.
You might not need to buy another album again after Broken Side Of Time because it's un-frickin' believable.
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