Favorite Gentlemen Recordings • Producers: Dan Hannon, Manchester Orchestra • Score 6/10
To promote their fourth full-length, Andy Hull and company posted a recording update in the band’s DIY “in-house-studio.” While many fans loved the concept, us audiophiles feared for a lack of dynamic range these Georgia natives had become known for. Sure enough, this crunchy 11-track banger is an intentional punch to the ears, masking mediocre 3.5 minute tracks. Perhaps Hull has spread his songwriting too thin, or Cope simply falls victim to precedence. Either way, new ears will take to this album quicker than those expecting an introspective lullaby or two. Standout tracks include “Top Notch” and “Cope.” – Andy Mesecher
