Fox Apts. debut album Omen is a cinematic, epic indie rock opera, doing for modern indie rock what Green Day’s American Idiot or My Chemical Romance’s The Black Parade did for pop-punk nearly 20 years ago. The album is a mix of alt-rock with shades of roots and folk that creates moments that feel sampled from the soundtracks of psychological horror films from decades past. The band’s name comes from a concept “based on a hypothetical apartment building whose stories and tenants will change from album to album, but whose odd craftsmanship, uncanny spaces, and hidden passageways are built in.” From this first record, it’s clear that the name lives up to the concept with relative ease.
When it’s said that Fox Apts. has crafted an album that feels like a film score, there’s very little hyperbole at play (just look up their relation to director Luca Guadagnino), as each song contributes to a larger cinematic narrative. The album is reminiscent of even classic epic rock operas such as The Who’s Tommy and Quadrophenia, as well as Pink Floyd’s The Wall, in its scope and ambition, but the lyrics and folksy core make the album a much more personal outing than those, overall. One of the most striking elements of the album is the revolving door of guest musicians who contribute their unique talents to the songs. Pete Holsapple, Matt Douglas, Jeffrey Dean Foster, Chris Stamey, and Rex McGee all make appearances throughout the album, adding their own personal touch to the already rich sonic landscape. This collaborative approach helps to create a sense of community and shared vision that elevates the album to new heights.
The album opens with “Stars of the 10-32,” a haunting instrumental that sets the tone for the rest of the record. It leads into “Monday Murders,” a chilling tale of a killer on the loose, complete with eerie guitar riffs and ghostly harmonies. “Come and See” continues the theme of danger and unease, with lead singer Dave Kajganich’s vocals conveying a sense of urgency and desperation.
As the album progresses, the songs become more varied in style and theme. “Noon Moon” is a stripped-down, piano-driven track that highlights Kajganich’s emotive vocals and the band’s exceptional songwriting skills. The chorus is as catchy as it is heartbreaking. “Goliath Lumber Co.” is a sinister Western rocker that tells the story of a cursed town and the company that exploits it. “State Street, 3rd Floor” is a haunting ballad that showcases the band’s ability to create a sense of atmosphere and tension.
Throughout the album, Fox Apts. display a mastery of both alt-rock and roots music, blending the two genres seamlessly to create a unique sound. The inherently ‘80s style that the band draws from adds a nostalgic element to the music, while the darker themes and imagery keep the album firmly rooted in the present.
The cinematic scope of the album is evident in the way the songs flow seamlessly into each other, creating a sense of narrative and progression. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and storytelling, painting a picture of a world that is both haunting and alluring. The album’s final track, “Ides and Etcetera,” brings the story to a close with a sense of closure and resolution.
Fox Apts.’ Omen is a stunning debut album that showcases the band’s exceptional songwriting and musicianship. The revolving door of guest musicians adds to the album’s sense of community and shared vision, while the overall cinematic scope of the record makes it a truly immersive experience. As stated, fans of epic rock operas like The Who’s Tommy and Quadrophenia, as well as Pink Floyd’s The Wall, will find much to appreciate in this ambitious and captivating work, and the stripped-down approach will hopefully be enough to bring in an even wider audience of those who often feel cold towards concept albums. There’s more than conceptual world-building to be found, much more. Omen is a must-listen for anyone who loves music that tells a story and transports them to another world, and for most, that’s just what any and all good music already does.
Kim Muncie