Micah P. Hinson - The Baby and the Satellite

Labeled by some as an EP, The Baby and the Satellite still manages to provide a rather revealing, in-depth look into the musical psyche of Texas-based songwriter Micah P. Hinson. The first eight tracks are re-recorded versions of songs Hinson originally put on tape in 2000. The original recordings can be heard in their entirety on the ninth and final track, giving listeners the opportunity to compare differences and nuances. The Baby and the Satellite is, at times, reminiscent of the indie rock/folk blend of artists like Elliott Smith and Pedro the Lion with its acoustic-driven melancholy and sparse arrangements. Hinson distinguishes his sound by often utilizing the lower part of his vocal register and by being willing to assimilate elements of other musical styles. For example, “Wasted Away” and “The Last Charge of Lt. Paul” incorporate elements of ambient and electronic music through their use of keyboard sounds, sampling and percussion. “The Leading Guy” uses an anguished backing vocal scream to effectively contrast Hinson’s detached, droning style. As such, these are some of the album’s more interesting tracks and are definite highlights. Dual versions of “The Dreams You Left Behind” bookend the first eight selections and also provide several outstanding moments, including the gorgeous guitar/flute duet that opens the reprise. While Hinson mixes seemingly dissimilar elements to brilliant effect on individual songs, the overall tone and color of the release changes very little from song to song. At times, this can cause the record to feel a bit burdensome and monotonous. Whatever its structural flaws may be, the album definitely contains instants of radiance and hints at a songwriter with much to say and the talent with which to say it. [www.micahphinson.com]