Wakin on a Pretty Daze, singer and songwriter Kurt Vile’s sixth full-length album, is a testament to the fact that there is still uncharted territory in the indie rock genre.
Throughout the 69-minute double album, Vile pushes the boundaries of what guitar-driven, lo-fi rock can be, experimenting with both song length and style alike. Ultimately, this experimentation pays off, as Wakin on a Pretty Daze is not only Vile’s best work to date, but one of the most impressive records this year.
Listeners unfamiliar with Vile’s work might be initially off put by his vocal style, or rather, lack thereof. His range is limited, and his delivery might come across as lazy, almost as if he’s drowning in the words as he sings them. However, these vocals perfectly accentuate the reverb-washed and hazy atmosphere that his guitar style creates.
On many of the longer tracks, such as “Was All Talk,” “Too Hard,” and “Girl Called Alex,” one can become mesmerized by the riffs Vile plays. Even though many of the songs on the album last more than seven minutes, the intricacies of each guitar part keep the listener engaged from start to finish. Often these riffs come across as lullabies, and are very soothing and calming to hear.
But Wakin on a Pretty Daze isn’t solely composed of tranquil tracks. “KV Crimes” and “Shame Chamber” both feature sharper and more distorted lead guitars. Additionally, on these songs, Vile ditches his happy-go-lucky croon for a fiercer style and a more effective vocal delivery.
In the end, Vile’s diverse and impressive songwriting capabilities should be lauded, and Wakin on a Pretty Daze catalogued as a triumph in the indie rock genre.
Dive Verdict: ????1/2
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