ALBUM REVIEW: Rose City Band – Summerlong

Thrill Jockey

Released: 15.05.20

When the Rose City Band debut was released quietly last year, the involvement of Ripley Johnson (Wooden Shijps/Moon Duo) went largely unmentioned. But anyone hearing it would have immediately known it was a Johnson project – that voice! that shimmering guitar! – with him adding a little country flavour (Harvest Moon Duo, if you will). And it was a great record, appropriately bucolic and languid and perfect for long drives down country roads.

Summerlong sees Johnson emerging from behind the barn to stake his claim, but the album is a little less satisfying; the country element feels dialled down somewhat and that’s a shame. There are some great songs – Only Lonely is a standout – but I’d recommend seeking out the debut.