Album Info
| Artist: | Alcoa |
| Album: | Parlour Tricks |
| Released: | USA & Canada, 24 Feb 2015 |
Tracklist:
| 1 | Old Habits | 3:52 |
| 2 | All Dolled Up | 3:00 |
| 3 | Codebreaker | 3:49 |
| 4 | It Won't Get Better | 2:57 |
| 5 | Always Chasing Me | 4:08 |
| 6 | Come & Go | 3:44 |
| 7 | Poison Acquaintance | 3:17 |
| 8 | 13 Years Bad Luck | 3:33 |
| 9 | For Holden | 5:00 |
| 10 | Rations | 3:29 |
| 11 | Famous Last Words | 4:12 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
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- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
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- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Released in 2015, "Parlour Tricks" is the second full-length album by Alcoa, a project led by Derek Archambault, known for his work with the hardcore band Defeater. This album marks a departure from the hardcore genre, delving into a more melodic, country-influenced sound that showcases Archambault's versatility as a musician and lyricist.
"Parlour Tricks" opens with "Old Habits," a track that sets the tone for the album with its blend of Americana and alternative country. The song's introspective lyrics, coupled with a melodic guitar line, create a feeling of nostalgia and reflection that resonates throughout the album. Archambault's voice, distinct and emotive, carries the narrative of a person grappling with their past and the desire for change.
One of the album's highlights is "All Dolled Up," a song that demonstrates Alcoa's ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly. The track features a catchy chorus, twangy guitar riffs, and a rhythm that toes the line between country and rock. The lyrics, which touch on themes of love and longing, are both poetic and relatable, showcasing Archambault's songwriting skills.
The album also includes more subdued, heartfelt tracks like "13 Years Bad Luck" and "Always Chasing Me." These songs strip back the instrumentation, allowing Archambault's voice and storytelling to take center stage. The minimalistic arrangement of these tracks highlights the emotional depth of the lyrics, creating a sense of intimacy between the artist and the listener.
"Codebreaker" is another standout track, featuring a more upbeat tempo and a melody that sticks with you long after the song ends. It's a testament to the band's ability to craft songs that are both catchy and substantive. The harmonies in this track, along with the well-crafted bridge, showcase the band's musicality and attention to detail.
Production-wise, "Parlour Tricks" strikes a balance between polished and raw. The production allows the album's country influences to shine through without overshadowing the sincerity and grit in Archambault's voice. Each instrument is given space to breathe, creating a sound that is full but not overcrowded.
Thematically, the album deals with personal struggles, relationships, and the journey towards self-understanding. Archambault's lyrics are introspective and often introspective, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences. His ability to convey complex emotions through simple, yet powerful, lyrics is one of the album's strengths.
"Parlour Tricks" also demonstrates Alcoa's growth as a band. While their debut album, "Bone & Marrow," introduced listeners to their sound, "Parlour Tricks" feels more confident and cohesive. It's clear that the band has found its footing, creating an album that is both consistent in quality and diverse in its musical influences.
In terms of impact, "Parlour Tricks" may not have achieved mainstream success, but it resonated with fans of alternative country and those familiar with Archambault's work in Defeater. The album's blend of genres and heartfelt lyrics have earned it a dedicated following and critical acclaim within its niche.
In conclusion, "Parlour Tricks" is a beautifully crafted album that showcases Alcoa's unique blend of alternative country, Americana, and rock. Its honest lyrics, combined with Archambault's distinctive voice and the band's musicality, create an album that is both emotionally resonant and pleasing to the ear. Whether you're a fan of country, rock, or just great songwriting, "Parlour Tricks" is an album worth exploring.
