Mac Demarco  – 2 – Captured Tracks

Mac Demarco’s ‘2’ showcases an understated blend of guitar driven song writing, lying proximal to Kurt Vile with echoes of The Velvet Underground. Indeed this is a high praise, but though a refreshing diversion from current rock music, this well crafted album ultimately bespeaks the untapped potential behind the talented Mr. Demarco.

Opening track, ‘Cooking Up Something Good’  -where fleeting melodies and jangling guitar hooks combine- effectively sets the tone for the rest of the album. Though the album itself is distinctive, individual tracks suffer from being too similar as the album sticks to the same formula firmly; that being said, there are stand out examples such as ‘Ode To Viceroy’ and ‘The Stars Keep On Calling My Name’ where this comes off particularly well. The tracks have an ephemeral quality, rarely pushing much above three minutes, working well within the laid-back context and preventing the album from dragging.

‘2’ is magnificently self-aware, making no excuses for itself. It could come off as inconsequential or frivolous, however resonates with a devil-may-care attitude and is there to be enjoyed for those fortunate enough to stumble across this gem. ‘2’ is not a masterpiece and Mac is some way off Lou Reed in terms of song writing, but he has produced a welcome alternative from the beaten track of indie-cock-rock, which all the while hints at something greater.

 

7/10

Joseph Menzies