Art Moore

The self-titled debut from Oakland-based trio Art Moore feels a little like a collection of short stories, each of the ten songs is based around a separate narrative from singer/lyricist Taylor Vick and brought to life by sublime instrumental backing that often subtly integrates electronic touches into the lush arrangements. The band originally formed as a project between Vick (already an accomplished songwriter with her solo project Boy Scouts) and Ezra Furman collaborators Sam Durkes and Trevor Brooks to make songs intended for placement in film and television. The project grew into something more personal and emotionally reflective when it became a fully realized band, but Art Moore retains some of the original intent in its precision sound design, pristine performances, and dynamic arrangements that would perfectly soundtrack the heart-rending breakup scene of an indie film. Theres a cinematic feel to the textural ambience and wistful melodies of slow-moving "Rewind," and songs like the bittersweet "Snowy" and upbeat album-opener "Muscle Memory" are built on vocal hooks so catchy they almost override the harrowing scenes of heartbreak and regret Vick lays out in the lyrics. Some of the most interesting moments on Art Moore come when the band delve deeper into the electronics that are mostly relegated to the background. Album standout "A Different Life" combines all of the bands strongest elements -- Vicks raw emotional reflections, sticky melodies, and beautifully detailed and constantly evolving arrangements -- and delivers them primarily via chunky synth brass stabs and clusters of ambient padding. Organic drums, acoustic guitars, and layered vocal harmonies all shine through at times, but the electronics lead the arrangement and make more space for every sound to find its place. In the hands of a less capable band, the intense sentiments of the songs might clash with the friendly, ornate production. Instead, Art Moores ten meticulously sculpted tracks balance sadness and hope, softening the blow of Vicks lyrical gut-punches with glistening sonics and gentle musical counterpoint. ~ Fred Thomas