Certain Memories – Subjangle
Assistant formed in Brighton in 2002 and released two albums but then disappeared until 2020 when they reformed. They signed with Subjangle and released a third and fourth album, while having their first two reissued. They are back with their 5th record, Certain Memories, a chill, sixties influenced album that takes cues from twee pop mixed with jangle-pop. Comparisons to Yo La Tengo, The Velvet Underground, and even Stereolab. The diversity of sound makes this a fun and magical record. I found them on Bluesky and asked them for a copy of their album. Glad I did.
Track 10, “Fresh Ingredients,” has a very Belle and Sebastian feel (think Push Barman To Open Old Wound era) – with a nostalgic haze of layered guitars and echoed melody. “My Phone Began to Ring,” is a soft and warm invitation to the theme of feeling and getting better as we age. The song is stripped down and raw. One of my favorites here is the Velvet Underground sounding “Derek Jarman,” track 5, which highlights the artist/filmmaker/gay rights activist and his home, which has over the years been robbed of gems and other articles by visitors. Track 2, “Song For Jill,” has a lovely reflective tone that is held together with a gentle strum and bouncy bass line.
The album is full of heartwarming and introspective pop gems. Truly a beautiful collection of midlife themes (I should know), with expert lyrics as the glue.
Track listing –
1: My Phone Began To Ring
2: Song For Jil
3: Raking Leaves
4: Jil Is Fading
5: Derek Jarman
6: Before And After You
7: I’m So Much Better
8: Overwhelming
9: Bring Them In
10: Fresh Ingredients
11: Tread
12: A Million Stars
Favorites: 10, 1, 5, 2, 12, and 3. Honestly, take your pick from any of the 12 tracks on this record.
– (h)earwitness