Out like Lambs’ self titled debut EP struts a studied, orchestrated folk sound. Opener ‘Bygones’ showcases Rachel Ade’s vocal style, which arrives fully born without the pains of early delivery. The songs are wide and sparse, shedding vast influences from hymnal gospel, free jazz, Americana folk roots to an orchestral knowledge that structures the setting. When ‘Bred to Bug’ breaks out into an improvised trumpet the disparity is distinct, yet not overly inharmonious. This is where the free noise jazz police would step in and laugh at my ignorance pointing to the structureless structure; the point that they have been trying to make for so long it is interminable to those in love with form and systems.
Regardless of such notes, the guitar of Michael Lucio Stenbach shows a keen talent. They open sonic vistas that display power and reverence for the hopes and dreams of individuals. There are a plethora of other musicians who play on this EP and who generally play with Out Like Lambs, wielding banjo, saw, omnichord, bells, clarinet, mandolin, violin, lap steel, flute, harp and the like. It exits on ‘two speeds’ with a long vocal harmony of the excellent line “You tried but you took too long/Now that we are homeless we are home”. Perhaps the giggle at the end gives it all away.
Innerversity Sound
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