Hanalei - We Are All Natural Disasters

I don't recall how many times I passed by this album in the record store before I realized what it was--the solo project of Brian Moss, singer/guitarist of the recently dissolved Chicago post-punk underdogs The Ghost. If you're familiar with the Ghost, or with this website, you might know that in the past, I've reviewed both of that band's albums. While I enjoyed them fairly well, there was always something missing. But now that I've heard this record, I realize that there wasn't something missing; there was simply too much. Brian Moss going solo destroys what he created with The Ghost. That is to say, he's more suited to this folk-meets-electronic style than he ever was with former bands. We Are All Natural Disasters explores a lot of territory. Moss tips his hat to folk music throughout the record, intertwining some country twang, drum machines, and distinct lyrical prowess. Fans of The Ghost might wonder how well Moss' voice comes across here, and I personally think it works well. He sticks to more whispery, soothing vocals, avoiding much of the roughness he's been known for previously. The instrumentation is rather simple--the acoustic guitar leads the way, and Moss injects himself into his words. And of course, alcohol plays a factor, in true Chicago form. The electronics aren't of the highest significance; they add just the slightest depth to each track. Songs like "Action Drum" and "This is Going to Be the Best Summer Ever" will help solidify Moss' place as a blossoming songwriter, and the entire record showcases the penmanship that's come to define this musician. Improvement has always been one of this guy's fortes, and this record is proof of that statement. I have a feeling it will be forever overlooked, but hopefully you'll give it a chance. [www.hanaleisounds.com]