Layn Pieratt moved across the country, ditched the moniker Mx. Moon and recorded eight songs documenting their first hundred days as an Angeleno. Released under the appropriately titled 100, the collection finds Pieratt keeping one foot in the experimental soundscape world they explored as Mx. Moon while simultaneously stretching out into more traditionally structured indie pop fare. The layered dreaminess is still there, but with it now comes hooks and beats and a new sense of life percolating throughout. If Pieratt’s previous work dwelled in the realm of half remembered dreams and hushed midnight confessions, 100 is clear eyed and staring toward the horizon in the twilight moments just before dawn breaks. As a listener it’s a beautiful space to inhabit and one that we’ve been visiting again and again through repeat plays. Our bet is you will too.
Thursdays With J.R. – Rupe
“Growing Up Is Strange” from Rupe gently spun in my ears this week. The acoustic guitar began our journey, before dry almost electronic or programmed drums come in, again, gently. They’re solid and hold down the song nicely. There’s an ominous synth or organ hiding in the background of this song for the entire duration. It’s a beautiful hum and white noise that carries you through. “I never thought I’d see the day when you would call me back” gently streams from the vocalists throat. How can we SEE a call? Its environment I say, and this track is heavy with it. There’s a climax or crescendo that sweeps across the track as more layers of guitar and keys join the journey. The electric guitar glides in and out, making you swoon for more. Not really much bass in the mix, but you don’t miss it. It’s there, just light. The build holds steady and just as you’re about to go full in, the song ends leaving you wanting more. I suggest a second listen as the journey is quite fulfilling. Don’t let its gentle side fool you, this is a solid tune, very groove laden. Would recommend.