Reccomendation of the day: Passed Away Vol. 1 by Dr. Dog

Passed Away, Vol. 1 by Dr. Dog captures the best parts of both lo-fi and normal studio albums. One of my favorite parts of listening to lo-fi music is that you can hear a lot of colorful imperfections and mistakes, or you can hear artists talking before, after, or during the track. All of these aspects are contained in Passed Away Vol. 1, and they made me feel like I was listening to a bunch of high school best friends making music in their basement.

There is a kind of light-heartedness contained within the songs. It made me feel like I was there when it happend, like I was a part of it. As for the studio aspects, Dr. Dog pulls off the music of a full band behind the static of a tape recorder. They also make use of multiple layers of vocals whose harmonies add significant three-dimensionality. Their eye for detail sets them apart from other Lo-fi music, and their addition of synth and organ is made ten times better by wavering tape effects. Another highlight is the lyrics contained. “I’m alone like a Christmas tree, chop me down and dress me up.” They are curious and heartfelt, and perfect for the songs that contain them. You can feel the influences of The Beach Boys in multiple areas but it’s glaringly obvious and endearing in “Eyesing the Blues”. The album is near to a masterpiece. -Daniel

Favorite tracks:

Me and My Girl

The Man Who Was Wrong

A Long Time Ago

Eyesing the Blues

Least Favorite:

Oh My God