Tom Jolu’s Live at Abandoned Studios delivers a powerful punch of punk and indie rock, fronted by wholehearted vocals and layered with horns, guitars, and sometimes synths. This live EP stands out not only for its big presence and dynamic sound, but also for its physical presentation. The record is pressed on clear vinyl with a purple splatter and packaged between two photos of a warmly lit and cozy studio, where it was mixed and mastered locally. The care taken to create this special Record Store Day release is an excellent indicator of all the talent and energy captured inside the physical media. It is a product of immense local talent and collaborative passion, culminating in a lively record with great replay value.
This is my very first listen to anything from Tom Jolu, and it makes for a great introduction. Vinyl records are my favorite medium for live recordings, second to being there in person. This EP feels like both, thanks to its loud yet balanced sound that fills the room, which is the best part of any live session recording. The softest track, “Daylight,” is given just as big a stage as its loudest, “Can’t Get Enough.” With that, the EP pivots from a rich and dreamy guitar-centric ballad at the end of its A-side into a punk-rockabilly eruption kicking off the B-side.
The lyrics and vocals are equally intriguing. Tom writes about personal growth and affection for a community that has supported him through ups and downs.The band honors past hardships with this track and pledges to continue ahead together.
Live at Abandoned Studios runs for a little over 20 minutes, just enough time to brew and drink a cup of coffee. I like this EP how I like my coffee: full-bodied and very energizing.
—Adam Striley
Amber Rubarth's Wildflowers in the Graveyard. What a wonderful metaphor for the conceptual theme that runs throughout this album: life, death, rebirth in nature and relationships. This LP resonated with me right away and drew me in for a real treat. Amber connects the listener with the natural order of the cycle of life in a rewarding way. She sings with a silky, characteristic voice, echoing a sweet lullaby’s assurance.
I found Wildflowers in the Graveyard soothing, reflective, and quite uplifting. I could feel stress fade away as I settled into the groove, vibe and theme of thIs album.
Wishing Song, “…and I wish our love was a song so when anything went wrong, we'd just cross it out and try another rhyme.".
"Best I Can", Captivating!
"The Mystery of Light", triggered my Siri command to turn on a grouping of smart lights in my listening room to adaptive lighting mode. This song is energizing, and it was a technical mystery of light. Phenomenal, an unanticipated and illuminating listening experience!
This album was a real treat to listen to on vinyl, but although the vinyl is out of print,it’s available on CD and music streaming platforms.
You can also check out a performance by Amber on WSKG’s Expressions, and on an upcoming episode of Expressions, recorded earlier this month and premiering in September!
—Sharon Gould