Adam
Vida, typically thought of as the drummer for the band US Maple and a fixture
in the Chicago improvised music scene, steps out from behind the drum set and
away from avant garde styles to take up his songwriting debut with Central Falls.
Central Falls’ music, like a bottle of wine, is lethargic and intoxicating
while brimming with an energy that hits hard when it hits and then glides back
into its dreamy euphoria.
Joined by his older brother Ben (on loan from the acoustic minimalist group
Town & Country) on electric lead guitar and vocals, the duo have assembled
a talented and capable group of Chicago musicians. The band includes the likes
of Steve Dorocke on pedal steel, Ryan Hembrey on organ and electric piano (both
members of Edith Frost’s band), Andy Uhrich on electric bass, and Jason
Adasiewicz on the drum set. For the recording of "Latitude" the rhythm
section was rounded out by Noel Kupersmith of the Chicago Underground Quartet
and Brokeback on acoustic bass.
On listening to Central Falls, one might hear elements of songwriters and bands
such as John Cale, George Harrison, Neil Young, and The Replacements. Due to
the instrumental setup, maybe even hints of a classic country sound. Central
Falls, however, is not attempting to create a pastiche of a bygone musical era.
They are creating new musical experiences that have been filtered through the
Vida brothers' other musical work and experiences. The treatment of the songs
focus on space and mood which allow the songs to unfold at a dreamy languid
pace, all the while remembering the well-written core that creates an unforgettable
tune.
Check out Central Falls' official site.
Latitude
2001