"Goes West" is a solid continuation of Tyler's guitar and compositional mastery, even pushing towards more accessible levels. As far as instrumental Americana goes, you really can't do much better.
Being both a member of Lambchop and Silver Jews, William Tyler is a talented guitarist that paints the picture of folk, country and Americana music through his solo work. When listening to records likeBeyond the Spirit and Modern Country, you get a sense of calm warmth and sometimes even spots of darkness (but mostly sunshine). Consisting of instrumental guitar with backing instrumentation, Goes West continues down the path of his previous records with an even more refined and detailed approach.
Goes West is laid out in a relaxed, but focused approach. Much of the songs are his most accessible to date, notably songs like "Alpine Star" and "Fail Safe." There's rich texture in the production and it seems that everyone involved is putting in as much care and work as Tyler himself. The drums are crisp (from Dawes' Griffin Goldsmith), the keys are dimensional and the bass is bumping. The guitar is obviously the focal point of Tyler's music, so let's focus on that. The guitar on this record has a lot of character to it and really creates these lovely compositions, as to why people return to his music. Mostly acoustic, the guitar is pristine and refreshing, but not annoyingly squeaky clean pristine like others. I would say, compared with other modern and contemporary folk-rock artists, Tyler is amongst the best.
"Not in Our Stars" is arguably my favorite, being a soft, "tuck you in at night" ballad that lulls one to a dreamy state. "Fail Safe" is the catchiest of the bunch and you'll be hearing this one from Starbucksbarista DJ's across the land. "Call Me When I'm Breathing Again" certainly has one of the most calming guitar tones of the bunch, while "Venus in Aquarius" plays with textures keys that lull in the background. "Rebecca" has one of the most memorable guitar moments on the record.
Say what you will about instrumental soft folk music, but William Tyler nails you on the head with some great songs. Listening to this record over and over is pure bliss. The album is a solid companion with his other work and is the perfect early morning/late night soundtrack. Goes West is a solid continuation of Tyler's guitar and compositional mastery, even pushing towards more accessible levels. As far as instrumental Americana goes, you really can't do much better.
My Rating: 7 / 10
Favorite Songs: "Not In Our Stars," "Call Me When I'm Breathing Again," "Fail Safe," "Alpine Star"
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