Since his start in 2006 with Ezra Furman and the Harpoons, Ezra Furman has since downsized to a solo act. His style remains the same: pieces of Bob Dylan, the femininity of Bowie and a versatility all his own. His first solo album, The Year of No Returning (2013), was recorded without a label. The same year he released his second album, Day of the Dog. Finally, Furman has released his newest album, Perpetual Motion People.
The album opens with “Restless Year”. Immediately, Furman presents his unique style with surfer vibes and quick keyboards, almost Vampire Weekend-esque. The track represents the album’s catchy melodies and energetic sound. “Lousy Connection” follows with Doo-wop background singers and jazzy saxophones. On another note, “Hark! To the Music” features a rock sound with a punk influence, what I imagine to be ideal pub music, while “Haunted Head” features a clarinet. Furman no doubt keeps his listeners on their toes. He does an excellent job of keeping a constant sound, while also varying instruments and style. 5 tracks in, “Hour of Deepest Need” finally takes it down a couple notches with a vintage piano sound and sentimental lyrics. “Wobbly” quickly picks up the pace with a vintage rock opening and Grease-like background singers, a perfect track for your next dance party (and probably my favorite track thus far). Each track features different moods, different instruments and different styles. Furman is a master of changing but staying the same. As a whole, the album is lighthearted and bubbly, even the slower tracks ooze energy. It’s safe to say all of his albums are refreshing in their range. One track may embody the Doo-wop 50’s, the next you feel like you’re at a punk concert. His sound is more than just drumbeats and riffs, saxophones and woodwinds create a timeless feel to this album, while still embodying a modern indie-pop sound.
4/5
Nikki grew up in an imitation German town in Georgia by the name of Helen. It wasn’t until middle school that she started to get interested in the arts: painting, music, and writing. She wrote in her diary, sketched in art class and listened to regretful music. By high school, her tastes became a little more refined. She found Fiona Apple, Lou Reed and Giant Drag, and they remain her favorites in college. She was accepted to the University of Georgia in 2012 and is currently majoring in English. Upon moving to Athens from a town with more trees than people, Nikki was a bit overwhelmed. However, there is certainly no lack of inspiration in Athens, and she appreciates its love for the arts and its service as a platform.