Sad Eyed Beatniks, the musical project of Kevin Linn (also behind San Francisco’s Paisley Shirt Records), is back with Ten Brocades. Joined by Mike Ramos (Tony Jay, Flowertown) and Karina Gill (Cindy, Flowertown), Linn has crafted a sonic universe that’s more than just an album.
Listening to this new record feels like déjà vu in the best way possible. I re-read my review of the outfit’s 2022’s Claudia’s Ethereal Weaver LP, and I can apply most of it toTen Brocades. “Understated gems that constantly push and pull at your attention strings?” Check. “A record decidedly out of time and space, very much its own thing, but with enough pop catchiness to become infatuated?” Double check!
Standout tracks on the new LP include You Belong With Us, the designated pop hit and the latest shining example of the vibrant Bay Area scene – watch the video below. It marks one of several tracks that rewards listeners who’ve made it to side B of the LP. Then again, it’s not like I felt the need to skip any of the songs to get there. Like Side B, Side A is a strong one, covering diverse ground, from jangle pop (Barong Mask) and strummy lo-fi pop (Monumental Ensemble) to Velvet Undergroundesque rock (It’s Who Makes The Scene, Harlequin With Guitar). Even the 7-minute title track on the middle of the record captivates throughout.
Ten Brocades is a record that hisses and sighs, teases and pleases, and will reward the time you spent with it. It is my favorite Sad Eyed Beatniks record yet. It paints a warm, melancholy and vibrant universe in sepia tones – one you won’t want to leave. Out now through Meritorio Records.