Great Grandpa’s Musical Evolution: A Dive into ‘Patience, Moonbeam’
The Band’s Resilience in Challenging Times
Great Grandpa, an indie rock band from Seattle, faced significant challenges following the release of their 2019 album Four of Arrows. This album marked a pivotal moment, showcasing their progression from their debut with a blend of thoughtful songwriting and catchy riffs. However, with the global shutdown that followed shortly after, uncertainty loomed over the band’s future.
A New Era: ‘Patience, Moonbeam’
In 2023, lead singer Al Menne released his solo effort, Freak Accident, which led many to speculate about Great Grandpa’s disbandment. Contrary to these assumptions, the band has come back stronger with their latest work, Patience, Moonbeam, their first album in over five years. This new album not only reflects a mature level of artistry but also highlights the collaborative spirit of the group.
Collaborative Musicianship
On Patience, Moonbeam, each member of the quintet contributes to the lyrical landscape, showcasing their talents. Multi-instrumentalist Pat Goodwin introduces intricate song structures while Al Menne delivers poignant vocal performances. Guitarist Dylan Hanwright injects catchy guitar hooks, and bassist Caroline Goodwin underpins the emotional weight of tracks like the haunting closer “Kid.” Drummer Cam LaFlam’s rhythmic prowess shines through, as evident in songs like “Junior,” where his drumming takes on a lead role.
Unconventional Sounds and Structures
This album is notable for its innovative sound and unconventional composition. Great Grandpa approaches their music by stepping away from traditional genre constraints such as indie rock and grunge. Instead, they blend various influences, including elements of industrial and electronic music, country-western, and chamber pop. Many memorable hooks emerge later in the songs, often appearing at the end rather than the beginning. Tracks like “Kiss the Dice” and “Doom” exemplify this trend, with others building through various dynamics, while “Kid” transforms into a multi-part sonic experience reminiscent of The Beatles’ “A Day in the Life.”
Expressive Vocals and Thoughtful Lyrics
Some tracks, such as “Top Gun,” reflect the straightforward, rootsy style influenced by Menne’s solo work. His vocal range has evolved, allowing for a more emotive delivery that shifts seamlessly between soft whispers, crooning, and powerful belting. The lyrics traverse a landscape from candid reflections in “Task” to the whimsically surreal in “Ladybug,” which features cultural references from various realms including Dr. Bronner’s and Donald Glover.
Melodic Mastery
Amidst the experimental elements, Great Grandpa’s instinct for melody remains a core strength. This is evidenced in tracks such as “Emma,” where a seemingly nonsensical refrain transforms into a profound moment through repetition. Patience, Moonbeam stands out not just for its forward-thinking approach to indie rock, but also as a genuinely enjoyable album that invites listeners to sing along.
