Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams, the new (fourth) solo studio LP from Portland, Oregon-based singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Patterson Hood—yes, of the legendary Drive-By Truckers—is a beautiful collection of ten melancholic Americana songs. The cover art hints at darker themes, confirmed by the lyrics (“I was shaking, I was coughing // I was crying and forlorn // But I wouldn’t let that stop me // I was sad before I was born”—from standout song A Werewolf and a Girl), yet the album carries a warmth that feels both intimate and deeply lived-in. Mostly subdued, the record leans into introspection, though it makes room for louder moments in the searing guitar rock of The Van Pelt Parties.
The ten tracks unfold like a journey backward through time, but they stand as a vital and resonant new chapter in an already awe-inspiring career. I am especially enchanted by the weathered, heartfelt vocals of the seasoned musician. As if that wasn’t enough, contributions from Lydia Loveless, Katie Crutchfield (Waxahatchee) and Karly Hartzman (Wednesday) enhance the lyrical depth.
Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams, produced by Chris Funk, is out now digitally, on CD and vinyl LP, through ATO Records. Also featuring Karly Hartzman, Xandy Chelmis, MJ Lenderman, Steve Berlin (Los Lobos), Stuart Bogie, Kyleen King, Brad and Phil Cook, Dan Hunt, Kevin Morby, Nate Query, David Barbe, Jay Gonzalez and Brad Morgan.
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