Review written by Sammy Key

There’s nothing better than hitting play on a new album, completely unknowing of what to expect, and feeling yourself come under it’s spell so suddenly that you raise your eyebrows in surprise. That’s exactly what happened to me with The Tower And The Fool‘s newest release, “How Long“. Like many people, I’ve been known to say “There’s not really any type of music I don’t listen to,” before tacking on a definitive “…except country” to the end of my sentence. However, after listening to this record, I’m excited to say the The Tower And The Fool have crafted a clever and eclectic blend of punk and Americana so sweet, I just might be hooked.

What the Providence, RI based band has managed to do is create an alt-country release that is entirely unadultered and approachable; I couldn’t help but fall in love with it immediately. Right off the bat, I found Alex Correia and Chris Rosenquest’s vocals to be absolutely charming, and coupled with the bands sultry organ swells and rambling guitars, it is truly a recipe for comfort. Lyrically, this is a melancholy record chock full of wistful lines and heartsick laments – I think it’s safe to say that there was a lot of missing someone going while it was being written. And although these sentimental lyrics are sensitive and tender, they don’t tip the scale into sickeningly sweet territory (a feat in and of it itself).

Standout tracks include the glum tune “Breach” which is an honest gem and “Who Does She Think She Is” is so delightfully drab you’ll want to wallow in it all day. “Scoliosis” makes use of some deliciously raspy vocals, and the lovesong “Broken” makes the achy-breaky heart classic country love story feel young and fresh. With nuances reminiscent of Counting Crows and Wilco, this well-rounded album finishes smooth and clear as a bell.

Ultimately, “How Long” is a record I am entirely stoked to add to my musical canon. Moody but upbeat, different but comfortable, The Tower And The Fool‘s melancholy harmonies, dynamic vocals, and twangy guitars are perfect for listening to on a cold, rainy day. Or any day, for that matter.

9/10