Though Broken Social Scene have been less than sociable as of late, one of the collective's major masterminds is out to prove he still has a pulse. Kevin Drew, who will soon be releasing a collaboration with Andy Kim of "Rock Me Gently" fame, is sending forth his second solo album. And even if it's been years since he ventured out alone, the Canadian songwriter seems dependable as ever.
Ambient-focused and sex-obsessed, Drew is a thoughtful recorder of shattered intimacy and soul-stung longing. Dark, sensual, and often cryptically moving, Darlings simmers in a state of sonic bliss that only Drew can cook up. Even if he seems unable to get past the tortured lyrical themes and semi-sultry musical ideas that have always haunted his work, there is a breathing beauty to the lush new record.
With layered synthesizers, relaxed drum machine beats, and a few chill guitar licks, Drew builds a warm wall of sound his voice crackles along with. Songs like "Body Butter" and "Good Sex" feel more polished and tactful than their titles suggest, bolstered by the careful production. Elsewhere tracks like "My God" slink along sadly with spiritual desperation or swell with epic weight as in the Feist-featuring "You in Your Were."
Ultimately, Darlings is an album that finds Drew comfortable with his talents. For fans of BSS or of Drew himself, the record, like "good sex," should more than satisfy.
Grade: A-
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