Like a better-behaved version of The Kinks, without the complicated family bond and on-stage fisticuffs, Brother Reverend deliver a remarkably addictive debut with “The Tables Turn Too Often.”
Thanks to influences that seem to have stopped sometime in the late ‘70s, the duo, singer/guitarist Keith Xenos and drummer Fletcher Liegerot, turn in a satisfying record with hardly a weak moment.
Across a baker’s dozen of indie pop nuggets, Xenos’ distinctive vocals and the bouncy guitar/drum mix gives life to songs as diverse as the upbeat “North By Sunset” or the leisurely “Monkee,” giving a variety that’s certain to broaden their appeal.
Lyrically, Xenos is about as clear as a Michael Stipe song ever was throughout most of the ‘80s. But much like R.E.M.’s output, when you were never quite sure if they were singing about lost love or the McCarthy hearings, you can’t help but sing along to Brother Reverend. From start to finish, one of the most satisfying pop debuts so far this year.
Brother Reverend – The Tables Turn Too Often/12 tracks/Muted Strings Records/2018