Artist: Alexander Tucker
Album: Dorwytch

I was pretty excited to hear Dorwytch after I checked out Tucker’s bio. Layering loops of stringed instruments into chamber-pop psychedelia? You’ve got my attention. Save for a few minimal guest spots, Tucker plays everything on Dorwytch except for the drums. It’s a bit hard to wrap your head around that on first listen. Then, BAM!, you realize that Alexander Tucker is one talented sum’bitch. He packs these songs with distinct parts and I’d give my left one for his loop timing, no lie. Does it always work? No, but there are three stunners on here – the driving, dark “Pearl Relics,” the sparse Syd-ness of “Atomized,” and the gorgeous drone of “Jaime.” Nearly every song on here has some awesome things going on musically but Tucker’s vocals start to blend together for me after awhile. There are a few too many songs that have a Jethro Tull feel to them (not that there is anything wrong with Jetro Tull), with a couple full blown Renaissance Fair moments early on – a little too British for my liking. Dorwytch is not something I will listen to very often, as baroque British chamber-pop is the definition of ‘must be in the mood for it’ music. As for Tucker’s future releases? He’s still got my attention. (Thrill Jockey)