MUSIC FARMER 5 - Review by Wolf Georgia
A Gleaming Beacon in the Indie Rock Landscape
Nestled under the LifeSkills Records banner comes an auditory jewel that shimmers with musical brilliance, aptly titled 'The Rusty'. The indie rock universe, abundant with emergent stars and fading constellations, has been bestowed upon by an illuminating force in the form of WELLBELOVED.
From the very first note of the album, it’s evident that this isn't your average indie rock record. It's a musical narrative, a storybook of melodies and lyrical tales, painted with the deep hues of nostalgia and bright flashes of modern insight.
“Thankful (Not Fire)” emerges as a standout, invoking the very soul of rock with its slide guitar, forging an intimate connection with the listener. It’s not just a song, but an experience, a memory relived and a new memory created.
"Freedom Is a Shotgun" takes you on an auditory road trip. You can almost feel the sandy winds of the Californian deserts blowing across your face, as the psychedelic tunes make your heart race. WELLBELOVED’s vocal prowess shines through, resonating with the intensity of the guitar and the grandeur of the organ.
“The Values” is nothing short of a masterpiece. It radiates an aura that’s reminiscent of legends like David Bowie. The enchanting guitar effect, complemented by the subtle yet captivating horns, creates a magnetic soundscape that draws listeners into its core. It’s like stepping into an indie rock dream, a dream one would never want to wake up from.
Rounding off this magnum opus is “(I See)”. Channeling groovy 50’s rhythms and chord progressions, it provides a fitting outro - introspective, refreshing, and leaving a lingering sense of musical fulfillment.
One cannot discuss 'The Rusty' without delving into the rich tapestry that is WELLBELOVED’s life. Born amidst the musical renaissance of 60's San Francisco, WELLBELOVED’s journey from a young guitar enthusiast to becoming an integral part of Charlottesville's music scene is nothing short of cinematic. Having rubbed shoulders with icons and helming various bands, his musical influence has been both significant and eclectic. After what seemed like an indefinite hiatus, the pandemic compelled David to rekindle his affair with music, giving birth to this remarkable album.
WELLBELOVED’s vocal prowess shines through, resonating with the intensity of the guitar and the grandeur of the organ.