Tawny Pipit - Palindrome

Tawny Pipit

Palindrome
self-released; 2014

3.5 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Within the first minute or two of hearing Palindrome by Tawny Pipit I was thinking this would be good music for a cop buddy show made in the 1970’s. After reading a bit of their bio it turns out that their album was an homage to classic ‘70s albums. The two members Neale Tawn (keyboards/programming) and Andy Varnel (guitar/keyboards/programming) did a great job at creating the palette of tones that you would hear on a record from the ‘70s.They did their homework and it pays off with nine engaging instrumental songs that manage to be eclectic while maintaining that ‘70s feel.

This album was recorded at their home and to my knowledge was a complete DIY effort. Overall, they did a great job with separating the instruments, use of reverb, etc. Basically the mix was solid. That being said they probably should have handed this over to a professional for the mastering. I noticed that some of the tracks weren't at the same volume, which is something that would have been corrected in the mastering process. 

The album is solid overall but the highlights were the tracks that contained some distinct funk from the bass and drums. Perhaps the best example of this is the first track “Time Bucket.” The song hit a groove right away and didn’t let go till the song over. They layer ‘70s inspired synths of over the rhythm section, which you can take home to the bank. 

“For Someone Unknown” puts aside the funk for smooth, relaxing acoustic guitar driven sounds. The song is a worthy contender and sounded good to my ears. “I Would If I Could (But I Can't)” was a certified highlight that was one of the most ambitious and energy-filled songs on the album. They combine organ, electric guitar, bass and drums while dancing around a number of grooves that can get the crowd moving.

As the album progresses they pump out a number of other notable songs and end it with “Princess Grace,” which was almost mix of jazz, funk and lounge music.

To my ears this is a fun, engaging album. It fits into a niche and won't always be something you will be in the mood for but does have its time and place.

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