Kelley Stoltz

Below the Branches

(Sub Pop)

Record Review by Alexis Roberts

Kelley Stoltz has soul.  He also has a brand new album full of songs that are warm and fuzzy like fresh towels right out of the dryer.  In addition to that, I bet he gets all of the ladies with these irresistibly adorable songs.  Below the Branches will make you feel just plain good, and leave you walking around with a grin on your face all day.

Below the Branches is very charming and slightly reminiscent of Piebald’s All Ears, All Eyes, All The Time.  Stoltz has a unique voice, catchy vocal melodies, and even more fetching old-timey piano parts.  He plays all of the instruments on the album, and does a commendable job—one that not many are capable of doing—as a one man band.

The lyrics are effervescent and merry.  These songs were not written to depress the listeners, which is what makes me like the CD so much.  Stoltz sounds like a man who is just so happy to be alive.  In the opening track, “Wave Goodbye,” he sings “Find a thing that makes you happy / Find a thing that makes you high / Pack your worries in a suitcase / Send them off and wave goodbye.”  For the next 13 songs, you can feel free to enjoy yourself and let go of your day-to-day stress.

We really need more artists like Kelley Stoltz—it’s been too long since I have heard an album that wasn’t all—or at least partially—about gloomy subjects.  Below the Branches will put you in a good mood if you give it a chance.  And if you still aren’t a believer after reading this review, I dare you to shell out the 99 cents to buy the song “Prank Calls.”  If you don’t like it, I won’t refund your money, but I will give you a hug.