'Interior Live Oak' draws from everything Cass has created over two decades of experimentation to cut through with a direct and clarifying light. Throughout, his attitude is hopeful, which may sound odd for someone who often sings about the more extreme aspects of modern life. 'Interior Live Oak', however, is the resolve of someone who has lived those extremes.
Named after a tree species native to Northern California, the album sees McCombs incorporate the more economical song structures of his prime material with the help of some of his earliest musical cohorts, including Jason Quever (Papercuts) and Chris Cohen. McCombs recorded much of the new material in the Bay Area, not far from where they had cut their musical teeth (as documented on last year’s archival release, 'Seed Cake On Leap Year'). Additional recording in New York City brought with it contributions from other perennial collaborators such as Matt Sweeney and Mike Bones.
Named after a tree species native to Northern California, the album sees McCombs incorporate the more economical song structures of his prime material with the help of some of his earliest musical cohorts, including Jason Quever (Papercuts) and Chris Cohen. McCombs recorded much of the new material in the Bay Area, not far from where they had cut their musical teeth (as documented on last year’s archival release, 'Seed Cake On Leap Year'). Additional recording in New York City brought with it contributions from other perennial collaborators such as Matt Sweeney and Mike Bones.
STAFF COMMENTS
Barry says: A brand new record from Cass McCombs! Following on from 2022's 'Heartmind' and the thoughtful majesty of 2016's 'Mangy Love', McCombs brings a uncharacteristically uplifting, optimistic burst of shimmering acoustic guitar and folky lyricism, rolling basslines and funk stabs.TRACK LISTING
1. Priestess
2. Peace
3. Missionary Bell
4. Miss Mabee
5. Home At Last
6. I'm Not Ashamed
7. Who Removed The Cellar Door?
8. A Girl Named Dogie
9. Asphodel
10. I Never Dream About Trains
11. Van Wyck Expressway
12. Lola Montez Danced The Spider Dance
13. Juvenile
14. Diamonds In The Mine
15. Strawberry Moon
16. Interior Live Oak
