August 26 2024

Marfa Light, an Americana band that hails from Fort Worth, Texas, takes a fanciful approach to their eponymous debut album. It unfolds as a soundtrack of sorts, one that imagines a Gen X’er on a journey from Colorado to Mexico City by way of Texas in an old Ford Ranchero and a stack of eight track tapes and the inspiration of Jack Kerouac to accompany him. Once he reaches his destination, he’s inspired to pursue the possibilities for his life’s second act and to find a partner with whom he can share the experience.

Not surprisingly then, the music is as expressive as the plot implies. The excitement and exuberance are evident at the outset courtesy of such songs as “Ranchero Squire,” “The Wolf (Bossa Nova)” and “Mexico City” in particular (the latter accented by its Mexicali horns). Certain songs are more considered — the rumination given “Nobody Reads the Paper,” the subtle yet seductive “Tulum,” the haunting ballad “Dreams Are Dreams,” and the shimmering “One More Time” — but each stays true to the essence of the experience while ensuring the narrative remains just as demonstrative.

So too, all the songs set a scene, expressing both hope and happenstance in equal measure and making the journey at the essence of the album all the more memorable and enticing. In that regard, Marfa Lights shapes up as a decidedly significant initial offering, one that promises plenty, and yet still manages to deliver intently and emphatically. Consider it a tuneful travelogue of sorts, one that sweeps its listener up and considers them companions. In that regard, Marfa Lights shines brightly.

Lee Zimmerman- is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capitol Records and director of communications for various CBS-affiliated television stations, he lives in Maryville, Tennessee.

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