Los Angeles – The Minneapolis based group Night Moves triumphantly return, after nearly four years, with sophomore LP Pennied Days (Domino Recording Co.). The band’s first record, 2012′s Colored Emotions, was a collection of poppy, 70s vibrancy. It was nostalgic yet distinctive. It heavily wore its influence on its sleeves. On this latest effort, principal members John Pelant (vocals, guitar) and Micky Alfano (bass) display a penchant for 70s and 80s rock, but this isn’t a rehash. This is a record that was in the making for a few years, changing in every inconceivable direction possible.

The group’s mixture of the two unique eras has them reimagining those exciting times of yesteryear. Night Moves continue to recall the likes of Steely Dan, The Band, and Fleetwood Mac. While these young guys were born well beyond the time of the above-mentioned bands, Pelant and Alfano showcase a warm and vintage feel to the work that conjures up the golden days of 70s rock. Much more than a nostalgic knockoff, the duo has ripened since their last endeavor. Deeper sensibilities, profound appreciation for their influences, and particularly leaping forward within their own musicianship, Night Moves’ sound penetrates the soul and reinvigorates the body. Night Moves is onto something magical with Pennied Days.

The opening track, “Carl Sagan,” is instantly ageless, as it is resuscitated through the pair’s graceful songcraft and Pelant’s excellent vocal abilities. It’s a rather bouncy track. Innocent and youthful, Pelant appears to possess an iconic voice that resembles those of the past. “Hiding In The Melody” conjures up rich and bountiful sounds that touch upon 70s rock. The melodies are something off an Eagles’ record. The band vacillates between synthy material and folky rock. No matter which way they are headed, beauty is to be discovered. “Staurolite Stroll” shines through the haziness and density. The classic rock inspired jam conveys indelible jangly guitar riffs and pleasurable sounds. As with many of the jams here, it will bring you back to another time and place in life. You might even think about the house you once grew up in and the vivid imagery that entails.

The songs here speak about finding yourself amidst the chaos and confusion of where to start, where to turn, or where you may just end up. The record consists of nine tracks – including the single “Denise, Don’t Wanna See You Cry” – which feel very united and cohesive. “Alabama” is from the same cloth belonging to the likes of Queen. From the vocals and musical structure, Night Moves is once again in good company as far as comparisons go. However, Night Moves isn’t a band merely trying to repeat the past. The music from that time period just speaks to these guys and these are the results. Call it paying homage, but Night Moves are on fire with Pennied Days.

“Kind Luck” is a somber tune that paints the portrait of a broken relationship. It may not be as grand as the other jams here, but it fits perfectly in the context of the album’s overall theme. “Only To Live In Your Memories” is chilling with its reverb, Fleetwood Mac-like arrangements, and reflective storytelling. For Pennied Days, Pelant channeled both his disenchantment and his discreet resolution into a set of striking, melodious songs whose luminous surface conceals an internal darkness. It’s clear the band has surpassed the efforts of its first album by leaps and bounds. However, it’s not really even about that. The focus should be on how the melancholy yet spiritually inspiring Pennied Days reaches out to not only this generation, but also to previous generations. It unfolds in many layers, kind of like life. While the members of Night Moves still have a lot of living left in them, their latest work is modern yet vintage, youthful yet mature, and great no matter which decade you grew up in.

Check out Night Moves on Facebook for info on the band’s SXSW performances and upcoming spring tour. Pennied Days can be purchased on iTunes.

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Sean Kayden

His father has always been an avid fan of 70s and 80s artists. He introduced Sean at an early age to the likes of many rock groups of that era. In the late 90s, Sean acquired a fondness for the likes of such alternative bands as Smashing Pumpkins, Goo Goo Dolls, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. In high school, he gravitated towards artists like Brand New, Saves The Day, and Fall Out Boy. As Sean entered California State University Fullerton, where he earned his BA in Radio/TV/Film, his music taste expanded to the realm of Broken Social Scene, The National, and Death Cab For Cutie. For as long as Sean can remember, he has always had the desire of launching his own stories that would someday be presented through television, film, and print. This form of expression continuously uplifts his spirit. Sean is a certified TRX fitness trainer and teaches group classes as well.

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