“I’ve spent most of my life getting high and getting busy” will be a line from opening number ‘Chief’ that sticks in your head and rightly so. It’s brooding, full of well-thought out lyrics and at times a little manic.
Just as quickly as you think you have Skyscraper Stan & the Commission Flats pinned down, the sheet is pulled out from under you (so to speak) and an upbeat country-esque track is thrown your way with ‘Always Thinking of You’. ‘Woody Guthrie’ is a highlight (that rhythm and guitar work) as is ‘William Henry Hayes’ for its dark brooding manner. A seductive song, much like the tale in the track.
Skyscraper Stan & the Commission Flats have been likened to Nick Cave, Timber Timbre, Father John Misty and there’s merit behind those claims. There’s a keen observational element to each track that’s heavy on the story telling with a darker edge. I highly recommend you pick this one up.
Reviewed by Valerie Vatoosh
