There’s a lot to discover in ‘Collected Pieces’. A series of evocative, wholesome and playful indie-rock pieces, the record approaches its material with a rather poppy character, allowing fuzzy and luscuous guitar tones next to melodious, relatable storylines, something that we are confident will help Aluminum Boys reach a wider audience. The California-based duo is keen to pinpoint Death Cab for Cutie as one of their primary sources of inspiration.
It makes sense: similar to them, Aluminum Boys struck a perfect balance between euphoria and melancholia, keeping listeners on their toes with heightened personal expression and deep reflections. Presenting hints of rebellious Americana and classic rock, ‘Collected Pieces’ feels as monumental as it is comfortable, connecting with its audience at a deeper level. Perhaps it’s due to the challenging reality around its origins. As the American group explains: “The record was born from one of the strangest eras in modern history — both a reaction to and a rebellion against the pulverizing sadness, confusion, and isolation of the Covid era.”
Made up of Jared Ottmann and William ‘Bill’ Pence, Aluminum Boys hold a rather quirky origins story, with the pair meeting in California, yet both hailing from Wisconsin. Almost as if it were destiny. Paula Kelly and Aaron Tap lent their production expertise to the cause, making ‘Collected Pieces’ a contemporary effort, one that still maintains tinges of early ‘2000s aura and a familiar sonic livery.
Recommended! Discover ‘Collected Pieces’ on Spotify:
