Mac Demarco - Some Other Ones (LP) - Canary Yellow Vinyl

"Some Other Ones" is a bit of an outlier in Mac DeMarco's discography, primarily because it was released as a free instrumental album in July 2015. This project was recorded during a short break in the sessions for another album, "Another One," and showcases a different side of DeMarco's musical personality. Unlike his other works that feature his distinctive slacker rock vibe, laid-back vocals, and introspective lyrics, "Some Other Ones" offers a collection of instrumental tracks that highlight DeMarco's versatility as a musician and his knack for crafting engaging melodies.

The album begins with "Little Pepper," a track that immediately sets a light-hearted and whimsical tone for the project. The use of synthesizers and a relaxed tempo creates a playful and inviting atmosphere, showcasing DeMarco's ability to convey emotion and narrative without words. This track, like the rest of the album, feels like a departure from the introspective and often melancholic themes of DeMarco's vocal works, offering instead a space for pure musical exploration.

"Another One" continues the album's exploration of instrumental soundscapes, featuring a mellow guitar riff that is quintessentially DeMarco. The track exudes a warmth and familiarity that fans of his work will recognize, yet it feels fresh in the context of an instrumental album. The absence of vocals allows the listener to focus on DeMarco's guitar work, which is both intricate and effortlessly casual, a hallmark of his style.

"Thief" presents a slightly different mood, with a more pronounced bass line and a funkier rhythm. This track showcases DeMarco's ability to blend genres and influences, incorporating elements of funk and soul into his distinctive indie sound. The playful interplay between the guitar and bass lines creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience, demonstrating DeMarco's skill as both a composer and a performer.

"Love Again" stands out as one of the album's more emotive pieces, with its slow tempo and melancholic melody. The track could easily serve as the backdrop to a reflective moment in a film or a poignant scene in a novel. Here, DeMarco's talent for evoking emotion through music is on full display, proving that his expressive capabilities are not limited to his lyricism.

The album closes with "Special K," a track that encapsulates the laid-back, feel-good vibe of the entire project. The use of light percussion and a meandering guitar line creates a sense of closure and contentment, leaving the listener with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

Produced and recorded by DeMarco himself, "Some Other Ones" reflects his DIY ethos and his preference for analog recording techniques. The production is clean yet retains a lo-fi charm that fans of DeMarco have come to love. This approach gives the album an intimate and personal feel, as if DeMarco is sharing a private jam session with his listeners.

While "Some Other Ones" may not have received the same level of attention as DeMarco's vocal albums, it offers valuable insights into his creative process and his abilities as a musician. The album serves as a reminder that music can convey a wide range of emotions and stories without the need for words, and it highlights the universal language of melody and rhythm.

In conclusion, "Some Other Ones" is a delightful and engaging instrumental journey through Mac DeMarco's musical landscape. It showcases a different facet of his artistry, emphasizing his melodic sensibilities and his ability to create compelling music across a variety of moods and styles. For fans of DeMarco and instrumental music alike, "Some Other Ones" offers a refreshing and enjoyable listening experience that complements the rest of his work while standing strong on its own merits.