Grackles - “San Antone”

Photo by JP Dingens

Austin, Texas-based indie act Grackles have just hit us with the tasty, retro sounds of “San Antone” (ft. Charlie Musselwhite & Lauren Harris).

This tune begins with the spirit of your favorite Tarrantino film, which is exactly where we hope to one day hear it. The vibe is dark and gritty and completely permeates the soundscape with the heart of yesteryear, though the blood of modernity courses through its lovely veins.

The rhythm is laid down by some bass and drums, held tightly in place with some guitar and harmonica coasting across the top. The production is so remarkably lo-fi that listeners will not dare confuse it with anything other than authentic analogue craftsmanship.

“San Antone” clacks and hisses as though a steam engine, transporting boxcars of vintage flair directly to your earholes. The vocals have a raw, early Tom Waits grit to them that makes it dang-near impossible not to take notice. Once we heard this voice, we knew we had to write about the track.

Ear candy arrives in the form of stellar vocal harmonies, adding to the song’s overall retro swagger. With all of its spunk and determination, we are confident that you will hear it and immediately demand seconds. Well, my friends, you’re in luck– the full album arrives on February 24th.

-HD