There is a lot of genre fusion going on in Columbus, Ohio these days and one hard working artist that seems to be flying under the local (and national, for that matter) radar is Dave Buker. His project Dave Buker and the Historians put out a project titled Say Ave. last year and it is worth at least a few minutes of your time – a few minutes might turn into several, which might turn into long term fanhood. You never know!
Having caught these guys at local music hangout Rumba Cafe earlier in the spring, I heard enough to know they were good (they share a member with fellow jazz/rock/indie band Fields and Planes). Perhaps I just wasn’t paying close enough attention, but it took sitting down with the recording to trying appreciate what they do. On paper, it sounds like Buker and co. are simply hopping on fads – take the use of the xylophone in “Say It Will” for example. This is used a lot in indie bands these days but it is effective in helping communicate the optimistic nature of the song. More muscle is introduced, albeit subtly in the whimsical title track. A contemplative turn in the mood occurs here, though. “On Your Arm” has a groovy staccato beat that segues into some fun guitar shredding – a big deviation from the start of the record, but somehow it still seems appropriate. Shoot, if Chris Funk from the Decemberists can shred and then switch to an organ grinder while pleasing the same fanbase so can Buker and his friends. “We’ll Always Look Classic” tones back things a notch to a pensive mood. Buker’s vocals take the front seat here, and they have this odd familiarity that I cannot quite place. “You’d Be Surprised” takes on a reassuring tone with just a touch of grit thrown in – pay attention to the lyrics though, you might miss it otherwise. “Won’t Keep Me Up at Night” rounds out the record with a reminiscent, carefree, and upbeat tune with minimal percussion.
Say Ave. is a record, that although treading on being disjointed at times for the large part works. The folk and alternative crowds will both find things to enjoy, and at times there’s even a throwback feeling that ought to appeal to the older crowd.
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjW4rLlmv_Q&h=297&w=450]
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