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SATSANG – ALL. RIGHT. NOW. – ALBUM REVIEW

 

All photos by Greyson Christian Plate

Satsang’s newest release, All. Right. Now., is a delightful record full of heartfelt songs that easily attach themselves to the inner sanctum of the listeners emotional psyche. The organic tunes are beautifully executed and contain delicate landscapes that portray the importance of family, friends and home. Satsang‘s songwriting has constructed exquisite odes fueled by acoustic guitars, fiddle and pedal steel.

Satsang is a Montana based group comprised of  Drew McManus (Vocals/Guitar), Karl Roth (Bass/Keys), Stefan Kallander (Guitar), Ben Teters (Drums) and Parker Brown (Bass). The band has been quite prolific  with three major full lengths in the past few years. The Story Of You dropped in 2016. It was followed by Pyramid(s) in 2017 and Kulture in 2019.

All. Right. Now. is a slight departure from their previous works. Their earlier records are heavily entrenched in soul, folk rock, reggae and hip hop. Even though the new LP cradles a much stronger Americana and folk path, Satsang still delivers positive vibes with lyrics that are rooted in change, growth and self awareness.

The breathtaking opening track, “From And I Go”, is a homage to Montana’s southeast region. It was written on a rock in the middle of the Stillwater river. Lead singer and songwriter, Drew McManus expounds: “I had hiked up with my wife and baby to hopefully catch some fish while they played. The wind was a bit much, so I sat on this rock and just watched my wife play with our youngest at the bottom of these giant mountains. Eleven years prior I had been at the same outlet when I decided to stay in Montana for good. The song is a love song to all things that make me feel home.

And that exactly how the listener feels. McManus’ emotive vocals and the elegant orchestration convey an aura of contentment and peace. The intimate rhythm further enhances the harmonious and serene atmosphere.

All photos by Greyson Christian Plate

All the songs on All. Right. Now. transmit a wholesome quality and each song harbors unique nuances that awards it an exclusive sensibility. The little fills of harmonica or fiddle in the background enables each composition to acquire its own consciousness. McManus is master of layering his songs with glowing tiers of aural textures. A good example is the captivating “Answer Is Yes” with its melancholy pedal steel guitar and ethereal backing vocals. It’s an exquisite piece that is both romantic and stunningly graceful.

All. Right. Now. has countless impressive tracks. The transcendent “This Place” with Trevor Hall is plainly majestic. The soft reggae lilt channels images of tranquil Caribbean evenings by the beach. The upbeat “I’m The One” with its calypso swing is a delightful chant to the happiness of true love. The countrified “I’ll Try” is elegantly lofty. The superb “Malachi” is McManus’ charming chorus to his children. The song radiates the universal theme of parental love and the desire for a better life for your children. It’s absolutely brilliant.

“Back Around” starring G. Love & Special Sauce is another jewel. The  breezy cadence, cool laid back harmonica and sublime arrangement powers the tune. The album closes with “To Last”. It a perfect ending. The song is a lovely ballad and McManus’ impassioned voice is touching and wistful.

Satsang should be extremely proud of All. Right. Now. The record is pure magic. McManus and company have painted a glorious palette of Americana music for all to relish.

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To learn more about Satsang, check out their Website

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Stream music:  Spotify Apple Music / Soundcloud

Purchase: Amazon  Bandcamp  / Direct

 

 

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