Gunslingers’ latest release, “Green Acres Motel,” is a compelling album that offers a unique take on the indie folk/americana genre. Lou Heneise’s clear, mountain-mama vocal stylings are the perfect fit for these dark folk songs with introspective lyrics. The instrumentation is simple but effective, with sparse guitar picking and minimal percussion creating a sparse soundscape that complements the melancholic and introspective lyrics.
The album deals with themes of loss, heartbreak, and coping, and offers a unique perspective on these familiar themes. “How to Sleep” and “Step Up” are standout tracks that deal with the idea of second arrows – the feeling of guilt that comes from having a negative emotion. “Happy Hunting” and “Winking” explore the complexities of falling in love after heartbreak, while “Gloryland” serves as a departure from the rest of the album, hinting at a grittier future sound for Gunslingers.
Overall, “Green Acres Motel” is an album that is both relatable and deeply personal, with its introspective lyrics and haunting melodies. Listeners may find themselves feeling a range of emotions while listening, from melancholy to hopefulness, as the album takes them on a journey through the ups and downs of life. It’s a perfect choice for fans of the indie folk and americana genres, as well as anyone looking for music that speaks to the complexities of the human experience. The harmony behind Lou Heneise’s vocals is simply bewitching, an enchanting performance that takes you down so many emotional journeys with its rather fantastical and imaginative supple instrumental backing.
It’s a record that’s definitively true to its genre and space, one that screams and blasts Americana as a voice and ethos to remember. Acoustic fans delight.