Los Angeles - From Indian Lakes is the multi-genre conception of California-based multi-instrumentalist Joey Vannucchi. The moniker is derived from Indian Lakes, California, where Vannucchi started writing and recording songs at the age of twenty. Over the course of three full-length albums, Vannucchi has steadily evolved both sonically and emotionally. His proclivity for subdued guitars and wistful melodies stick like glue. Another remarkable fact about Vannucchi: not only does he write all of music, but he also performs every instrument heard on his records. When on tour, Vannucchi has close friends supporting him as a full fledge band. With the release of his fourth album and second on Triple Crown Records, Everything Feels Better Now is comprised of layered guitars, emotionally driven monologues, and a moody resonance that will surely touch the listener. This new album marks a fresh chapter for From Indian Lakes. Joey Vannucchi has reached a whole new level of creativity with Everything Feels Better Now. There’s something starkly different here, but Vannucchi remains faithful to the appealing sound of his previous records, with these twelve tracks.
The refined “Happy Machines” opens with a whirlwind of synths in the background, contrasting Vannucchi’s tender falsetto. The chorus features the passionately delivered line, “Everything feels better now.” The first single off the record – “The Monster” - follows. It’s a perfect example of Vannucchi’s progress as an artist. The catchy chorus, highly propulsive nature of the track, and brooding lyrics accumulate into this flawless, little package. With forbidding lyrics – “I was a normal kid, no one could see / I had a monster that was growing in me” – Vannucchi balances darkness with light as the melodies are more upbeat than the lyrics. The subsequent track, “Blank Tapes,” showcases reflective lyrics and atmospheric sounds, twinkling with humming guitars escalating over rich progressing drums and a scant bass. Vannucchi positions his voice in an ethereal shell, falsetto peaking as the arrangement surges beneath him for an enchanting, dreamlike trip.
“Hello” begins with a subtle guitar, soft but menacing synths, and Vannucchi’s soothing vocals. One of the strongest tracks here, “Hello” is chill worthy. Before the halfway point, Vannucchi adds another airy layer, before revisiting a light guitar/dark synth combination. Vannucchi’s vocals change ever so slightly numerous times, bringing a new element to the track as it progresses. “Feel Love” goes full force with beautiful guitars, rich and vibrant in tone. “American Dreams” takes the worthy spot as the most intricate song on Everything Feels Better Now, providing opulent sounds throughout the course of its duration. Gorgeously crafted, captivating from beginning to end, and greatly poignant, “American Dreams” is a masterpiece! With Vannucchi agonizingly reciting the line, “It’s starting to my hurt head, this American Dream again,” you can feel the pain for not only him, but yourself too. “Nome” is another strong addition to the record, with moody, ethereal echoes.
“Sunlight” shines. It starts off with a modern indie rock guitar vibe before breaking into something grander, with the chorus: “You’re standing in the sunlight, I want to be the dream that you see at night / You’re looking for me on the other side, I want to be the one who can save your life.” The slow hitting “Come Back” will leave you pondering your past and the very thought of it returning to you. The closing minute or so of this one, when it’s purely instrumental, especially takes you on contemplative ride. Everything Feels Better Now visits many places within the spectrum of the human spirit. Not only does Vannucchi take a deep, thorough look inside himself, but he also convinces the listener to do the same. The record is an examination of past, present, and future, providing inspiration for one to find strength while reflecting upon life. Everything Feels Better Now is an exceptional record, embracing light when dark is approaching at an alarming pace.
Everything Feels Better Now is available for purchase on vinyl, CD, or cassette via Triple Crown Records or for digital download through iTunes. From Indian Lakes is currently on tour. Head over to the From Indian Lakes Facebook page for tour dates.
Follow Best New Bands on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Sean Kayden
Latest posts by Sean Kayden (see all)
- Gang of Youths Put On An Epic Performance In Los Angeles - June 22, 2017
- Cigarettes After Sex Show Off Strong Debut LP - June 12, 2017
- Beach Fossils Comeback With ‘Somersault’ - May 24, 2017