John Arthur and Cris Slotoroff, also known as the band The Deafening Colors, return with their first full(ish) release since 2015’s lovely Carousel Season. Full-ish because Run Pass Option is technically a mini album. Although it is only six songs long, it lacks nothing and continues a solid creative stretch for the duo.
The opening “Saracen Revisited” has the familiar melancholy that Carousel Season excelled at but acts as a bit of slight-of-hand. The second track, “Count on a Crime,” is a full-fledged lo-fi rocker that takes the listener by surprise. Same goes for track three, “Riggins in the Bardo,” which looks back to the band’s earlier, more psychedelic sound.
Contenders for the most memorable tracks in the set go to the snappy indie pop of “Crash Course” with a deft mix of power pop feel and massive, reverb-drenched guitars verging close to shoegaze territory, but managing to stay in its lane; and the album’s first single, “She Moved to Oklahoma.” You’ll hear all kinds of touchpoints with this track with a latter half shifting tempos and moods.
Available as a download from Bandcamp, The Deafening Colors’ Run Pass Option confirms to the group’s growing fan base that this remain on the right course. When you need a respite from the endless, overprocessed sounds of today, give this collection a try and be reminded of what two people and a little bit of passion can accomplish.
Run Pass Option is available now at Bandcamp.com.