“Drag Me Out,” the latest LP by Long Beach, CA musician Dustin Lovelis, caught my ears with the single (and second track on the LP) “She Drags Me Out.” It’s a jangly pop confection with an addictive hook that not only stands up to multiple plays but compels them.
“Dustin’s music is drenched in textures both vintage and modern, while his fine-tuned pop-sensibilities rise out of whichever era ignited the inspiration.”
http://www.porchpartyrecords.com/dustinlovelis
The harmony continues with “Dull Phase,” the third track on the LP. Again an addictive chorus accented by quality guitar riffs. This time taking it down a notch into more reflective territory as fits the subject matter.
Lovelis further explains that this album is less autobiographical, calling it “a roller coaster of happiness, grief, anticipation and commentary about the world we know today. … [And] reassuring myself in the third person that everything is going to be OK.”
As for the lead single, “She Drags Me Out,” Lovelis says, “This song is about my wife helping me get out of my head when I’m stuck.”
https://buzzbands.la/2022/09/22/stream-dustin-lovelis-she-drags-me-out/
Another favorite is “Counterfeit,” coming in near the end at track number eight. Some cool experimentation with sounds, echoing and reverb.
It’s a nice lead into “Anticipating Jane.” Lovelis keeps the vibes mellow and continues the harmony and wafting hooks.
Released 9/23/2022, Drag Me Out is right up my alley as a longtime The Posies fan and lover of intricate pop rock. I am after all a child of the 1960’s and 70’s when AM Radio was awash in melody and two and a half minute pop sellers.
I shared Drag Me Out with a friend who instantly referenced John Lennon. I can hear it. (Just Like) Starting Over would be a nice fit in this LP. That would put Lovelis smack dab back in 1980 with this collection — at a time when pop was about to give way to all that the 80’s brought our way.
Drag Me Out is a welcome set of songs to ease into Autumn with. Lovelis has created a lovely reminder of the power of pop to not only sell records, but to be art in and of itself, conveying the subtleties of relationships and the human experience.
Dustin has been on a few labels, so his YouTube Topic page is a must-visit to take in more of his catalog.
LINK: https://dustinlovelis.bandcamp.com/album/drag-me-out
UNCLE EARS is a music blog written by David Falk. davidrfalk@gmail.com David was born in 1962 and gravitates towards melodies, adventure, unsigned artists, fresh discoveries. He trusts his ear to know what it likes and loves sharing what he finds. He lives near Seattle, WA, USA.
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