Some records race through the gears at a rapid pace, while others ease into cruise control at a more gentle rate. HEAVY LIGHT by Oklahoma outfit Beau Jennings & the Tigers is a candidate for the latter and you really feel the benefit of its luscious tones once you've road tested the tunes with a few preliminary spins. What exudes when fully bedded in is a wide scope of malleable rock structured by a mix of left field Americana and a dashing stab at synching the popular song. Jennings, an experienced rocker in a variety of guises, is the first to admit that the Tigers do a lot of the heavy lifting, but the bare bones he brings coupled with highly capable upfront skills mould a refreshing and portable release. Portable to the extent that it makes a valued travel accompaniment whether blasting out down the highway or plugged in for more insular consumption.
Beau Jennings is the latest in a string of artists from the Black Mesa Records label to get some international exposure. Oklahoma has a strong reputation for outstanding songwriters and this record just adds to the pile. Across the nine tracks forming this laudable release, the tempo undulates to reflect the moods that emblematic rock can emanate. From the punchy strains of opener 'Sunflower' to the mellower 'Colorado' commanding the ear at the midpoint, tuneful numbers appear like a staging post in the distance, gradually coming closer until fully absorbed into your psyche.
Potential standout track 'The Comeback' possesses all the hallmark of a retro rock hit when radio was king and would likely then become an in-motion flag bearer beating off all similar sounding rivals. Stirring stuff to lubricate those listening lobes. On the sound front, keys collide with guitar frequently, no more pertinent than in the enticing 'I'm Reaching Lord'.
A little delving into the notes accompanying HEAVY LIGHT reveal Beau Jennings as sharing the limelight with many well-known operators in commercial and acclaimed spheres. This certainly shines through on a record perfectly framed for wider appreciation.
Back to the tracks, and 'I Know These Guys' is a deep dive into an eery world and could easily end up on a film noir soundtrack where mystique is rife. The easy feeling title track leads you into the second half of a record that lasts just over the half hour mark. A timely trait meaning several back-to-back highly recommended spins can fit into a busy schedule.
Of the final three offerings, 'Juniper' is another serving of low key mellow rock with a magnetic draw to the lyrics. 'Bring a Little Light' is probably the most melodic offering on show thus harking back to an earlier assertion of not being afraid to attach a popular strand. 'May This Song Be In Your Heart' is a swirling finale, once again positioning itself in the realm of the ear worm. Creating a memorable closer is not a bad send off, although once ingrained the whole record slides easily across a turntable or alternative listening device.
HEAVY LIGHT is a succinct album brimming with capabilities to proudly hang prominently in an astute collection. Beau Jennings & the Tigers have projected what they do best in new directions, where a warm welcome will duly await.
