Colin Cowan and the Elastic Stars
Spring Myths (Independent)
Colin Cowan continues his seasonal series with Spring Myths, a preternatural look at the vernal equinox
Cowan’s bountiful creativity must be noted. Here is a man who manages to balance his prolific solo career with weekly jazz nights at The Lido and beyond, as well as his gig as bassist for Dada Plan (who’s own Malcolm Biddle produced Spring Myths). While some may disintegrate under creative exhaustion, Cowan thrives, giving us 10 tracks of neo-psych, folk-noir that are perfect for the dizzying heat in an unusually balmy spring.
The album begins with “I’ll Masquerade It”, a song that would not sound out of place on Neil Young’s On The Beach, possessing the same kind of spacious, soaring melodies and sprightly production. “Where What Loves Me” is a slow-burn cosmic shuffle, shimmering with odd prog synth sounds that somehow compliment the sparse cymbal-and-guitar combo perfectly.
Despite it’s eccentricity, there is something concrete and definitive about Spring Myths. The subtle nuances in his writing are beginning to surface like blades of grass through snow. After all, what’s the myth of spring, if not the potential for something great?
All ratings out of five
Rating:★★★★
