Folk-Americana artist Alejandro Rose-Garcia, known professionally as Shakey Graves, released his album “Movie of the Week” on Sept. 15. Graves ventured into new genres in this album, which unfortunately conflicted with his typical folk style at times. “Guitar distortion covers up Rose-Garcia’s voice in songs like ‘Evergreen,’ making the words difficult to understand,” Shaikun wrote. “While the grunge influence is an interesting touch, it doesn’t mesh well with Rose-Garcia’s soft voice.” Cover art free use of Apple Music
Folk-Americana artist Alejandro Rose-Garcia, known professionally as Shakey Graves, released his album “Movie of the Week” on Sept. 15.
Alejandro Rose-Garcia, known professionally as Shakey Graves, released his album “Movie of the Week” on all streaming platforms on Sept. 15.
The folk-Americana artist deviated from his typical genre in favor of a distorted guitar-heavy album. The lyrics and themes made “Album of the Week” a strong venture into new territory, although it’s not a standout among Rose-Garcia’s other works.
Rose-Garcia originally intended “Movie of the Week” to be a true movie soundtrack, accompanying a film directed by one of his friends. When Rose-Garcia’s creative vision differed from the director’s, he eventually left the project and released the album as an independent creation.
The themes throughout “Movie of the Week” are strong, with a loose storyline bringing listeners from the refusal of the call trope in “Evergreen” to a bittersweet ending in “Heartstopper.”
These storylines are assisted by consistently impressive lyrics, shown best in “Playing Along.” Rose-Garcia shows his poetic side as he writes, “Choking on economy, dastardly and drastically / Creature of the century, prettier in poverty.”
“Ready or Not,” featuring singer-songwriter Sierra Ferrell, allows both Ferrell and Rose-Garcia to showcase their vocal talents. The background music is kept to a simple drum beat and soft guitar, making way for the singers’ voices.
Folk-Americana musician Shakey Graves released his album “Movie of the Week” on Sept. 15. According to Digital Editor-in-Chief Anna Shaikun, songs like “Evergreen” make the album a cohesive work through their thoughtful lyrics. “The themes throughout ‘Movie of the Week’ are strong, with a loose storyline bringing listeners from the refusal of the call trope in ‘Evergreen to a bittersweet ending in ‘Heartstopper,'” Shaikun wrote. Video fair use of Shakey Graves
Unfortunately, “Ready or Not” is the exception rather than the rule. Guitar distortion obscures Rose-Garcia’s voice in songs like “Evergreen,” making the words difficult to understand. While the grunge influence is an interesting touch, it doesn’t mesh well with Rose-Garcia’s soft voice.
Additionally, the interlude songs, three songs throughout the album containing only snippets of random advertisements and movie trailers, are frustrating. With three practically nonexistent songs and two previously-released singles, “Movie of the Week” can feel like a glorified extended play.
While “Movie of the Week” can feel as if it’s trying to battle itself, the album still makes an intriguing contribution to Shakey Graves’ discography.
