Sprightly Moans: Demos II
Hailing from Austin, TX, Sprightly Moans has carved out a unique sound scape in the Lone Star State. Fronted by Dave Wirth and saddled with Jeff Olson, this two man show packs a massive punch. Not quite your Black Keys duo, though the amount of sonic space that is filled with two musicians is remarkable. Let me say this, the music of Sprightly Moans will not be everyone’s cup of tea. For those who drink the elixir will be pleased that they let them into their ear drums.
Dave’s vocals are unapologetic and the drum beat takes control of your lower extremities. Each song I listened to had two songs in each; the standard vocals and instruments, then end with a parallel instrumental section with high energy. In Twin Kilns, the outro takes you into the sunset with the percussion. Dots and Dashes shows us some of the higher vocal register reaches of Mr. Wirth. The symmetry of the drum rolls and distorted guitar fit like a glove and make sense of the madness. Brinksmanship takes the dirty grunge sound with heartfelt vocals, helping tell the story.
Having three releases into the market, this group is legit and for real. When they show up on the bill at your favorite music venue, you would regret not having your ears ringing the next day. Don’t mess with Sprightly Moans.
By Donald Mason
