Hanalei "Parts and Accessories" (Thick)
By Tim Den
Friday. Mar 10, 1:15 AM
Lyrical, literary, descriptive storytelling from a formidable force in the making.

(read an interview with guitarist/vocalist Brian Moss here)

All-around nice guy Brian Moss started Hanalei as a lo-fi, folktronica solo project during the twilight years of his former band The Ghost (who released two records on Some), but in the year and-a-half since its debut (We Are All Natural Disasters), Hanalei has taken on a life of its own with additional members and a shift in style. Parts and Accessories resembles The Weakerthans more than The Notwist, which is actually more fitting of Moss’ lyrical, literary, descriptive “non-fictional accounts, memoirs, critiques, petitions, and observations” of existence. Chiming, jangly chords play out heart-softening melodies upon which Moss’ clear and comforting vocals ride, complimented by such scenery as “you’re leaving me like a footprint in the Midwest snow.” The aforementioned comparison to The Weakerthans becomes stronger (and deservedly so) the further you dig in between the lines… name another act that can serenade a verse this plaintively yet effectively: “Me and this city / we’re memories and history / of a future that doesn’t exist / the warm summer nights and skyline lights / won’t make up for the winters that you won’t miss.” It’s apparent that Moss’ time spent working three jobs, touring, and taking creative writing courses has given him more than enough abilities to turn anecdotes into poetry. “We don’t have friends around here / we have accessories?” Brilliant.

Chicago, as overflowing with incredible talent as it already is, is molding quite a bright storyteller that looks to be a formidable force in the future.
www.hanaleisounds.com
www.thickrecords.com

Listen to a song from this album in our Radio section!

Tim Den

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