Vetiver’s albums are difficult to review and Errant Charm is no exception. In fact, I’m going to blame bandleader Andy Cabic for this latest writing slump I’ve found myself in. Vetiver isn’t about a hit single, although “Everyday” off of their previous release, Strictly Game, was a standout. No, Vetiver is more about creating a cohesive collected work that works from start to finish.
Errant Charm feels like a breezy day. You know that feeling when you try to nap on the beach? You can hear the ocean, the seagulls, the distant sounds of others enjoying the same summer day. You find contentment in the world behind your closed eyelids, still illuminated by bright sunlight. Your decision making is simplified to a) Do I roll over? b) Do I cool off with a quick submersion in the waves rolling in? c) Do I order a frozen drink at the tiki bar? That’s how Vetiver makes me feel.
The album is mostly slow moving, but picks up with a trifecta of lazy California rock tunes in “Right Away,” “Wonder Why,” and “Ride Ride Ride.” Errant Charm has been powering my back deck barbeques over the past few weeks. If you’re in need of a soothing summertime album, it’ll be released on June 14th via Sub Pop Records.
From Tight Knit:
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that is the perfect way to describe them. I caught them at the San Jose during SxSW and I just felt myself at ease. It didn’t hurt that I was enjoying a michelada and sun was beating on my face. At any point, I was happy and they sounded great.
The name of the last Vetiver record was “Tight Knit”, not “Strictly Game”.
You are correct Sage. I think I was looking at the tracklist when I wrote that.
“Strictly Game” isn’t even a track though. “Strictly Rule” is. I think you’re thinking of the Harlem Shakes song.
Very true, Mike. So many errors – the result of limited brain cell activity. My apologies for the misstep.
Strictly Game is a nice tune by the way.