Christina Bulbenko and Rex Broome are not only the lovable founders of Big Stir Records, as singer-songwriters they also lead The Armoires, the Burbank, California-based band that combines pop, folk, psych, prog and rock into their own unique universe. On their new (fourth) full-length Octoberland they pull out all the stops to create a sonic Utopia, with references to myths, literature, folklore and modern media. “We are The Armoires // Anything could be inside // This is your invitation // Come join us for the ride” they sing in the opening song We Absolutely Mean It, from which the album takes its title, and of which the rest of the lyrics could serve as a review: “This was never about comfort // This was always about risk” and “This is not a single point of view // This is a collective.” The eleven varied songs enchant with an extensive instrumentation, inimitable vocal harmonies, a warm sound and a theatrical feel—a sophisticated and richer-than-rich overall picture of collective spirit.
Octoberland, produced by Michael Simmons, is out now digitally, on CD and vinyl LP, through Big Stir Records. Featuring Christina Bulbenko (vocals, keys), Rex Broome (vocals, guitars), Larysa Bulbenko (viola, violin, vocals), Clifford Ulrich (bass, vocals) and John M. Borack (drums), with Michael Simmons, Jared Jenkins en Miranda Broome guesting on select tracks. Cover art by Ridley Broome, inspired by Alphonse Mucha’s Cognac Bisquit.