Music is a big part of Fausto‘s DNA. In our first installment of “Five Albums” we ask our friend and drummer of the band Saint Motel, GREG ERWIN, to give us five that he’s been listening to of late. Our only requirement for this was that he couldn’t pick anything from his own band. We think that’s fair, despite Saint Motel’s catalog of tunes being really strong.
Two of the Five
Jungle: “Volcano” (2023)
As a drummer and a member of a band that loves to play music and make people dance/vibe/rock/get funky, “Volcano” by British band Jungle is one of my all-time favorites. Jungle is a fully live band, but when you listen it sounds like you’re hearing a fully produced dance track someone produced in Ableton. There’s so much precision and metronomic, dancy-ness, but what you’re hearing is six real musicians playing perfect dance music all in real time. It’s truly the best vibe!
Standout track: “Back on 74”
Why? Well, this track is a standout among standouts for me. There is a vibe from moment one. There is a swing to the entire song that makes you want to do the Carlton dance (check your references, kids). Jungle is known for its constant harmonies and falsetto singing throughout—and this track is no exception.
I will say, it’s way different than the rest of the record, and in the best way.
Sierra Ferrell: “Trail of Flowers” (2024)
I love me some old school country music and a select-few Americana acts—but when I first heard Sierra Ferrell on NPR’s “Tiny Desk” series I was ready to shed the wardrobe and buy a Stetson and a pair of snakeskin Tony Lamas. “Trail of Flowers” is a collection of rootsy, western, bluegrass, Americana, ragtime-y goodness. There is a perfect blend of so many musical feels throughout this record. That, matched with Ferrell’s incredibly unique vocal stylings and ability to weave great storylines into the lyrics, makes this a must-listen album for me.
Standout track: “American Dreaming”
It’s hard to deny this as a standout song on the album—not just because it won a Grammy this year and is arguably Ferrell’s most popular song but also because it truly is one of those songs that deserves accolades and attention. It’s a beautiful song with a beautiful message/perspective on the “American Dream.” I will say, it’s way different than the rest of the record, and in the best way.
While you may know Greg as the drummer in the band Saint Motel, he also loves riding bikes and “shredding the gnar” on his dirt bike. He’s on IG: @gregerwinphoto
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