Walcot - Walcot

Walcot

Walcot
self-released; 2016

3.6 out of 5

By Mike Pryzgoda

The self-titled EP Walcot by Chicago band, Walcot is sunshine melodies and alt-country pop merged together.   

“Dreamin’ Away” opens the EP with a nice melody, prominent acoustic guitar and subtle organ pads.  There is a clever halftime break partway through and a mandolin-like solo that adds some great high end to the song.  Unfortunately, the drum fills are a bit rough and lose any groove that is trying to be established throughout.

“Another Man” is more successful in its Kinks-like form. Driven by harpsichord over Motown-ish quarter snare hits, there is a curious and interesting vibe that is contrasted by an open recitative-esque verse.  The contrast gives the song a great direction and momentum.

“It Feels Alright” opens with a waltz-like intro with rolled cymbals and chiming electric guitars before an extremely catchy hook enters. The 4/4 chorus moves effortlessly into the 3/4 verse, drawing interest but keeping the groove. Between organ swells and the U2-like melody in the chorus, this song is extremely catchy. The bookended intro/outro, however feels a bit unnecessary.

“Something’s Gotta Give” is a McCartney-ish ballad that closes the EP. Traveling through lots of chords, the song uses similar melodic patterns that work with the different context of harmony behind it. The piano solo is good, but there are some tempo discrepancies throughout slowing down and giving some sluggishness to the feel.

​Overall, Walcot has some good songwriting. Some attention to the drums and the groove in general could help lift these songs up even more.

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