Mo Lowda and The Humble - Album Review
By Bre Cura
Mo Lowda & the Humble’s self-titled album dropped today, and after attending their Free at Noon concert at World Café Live this past Friday, we are so excited this record is out in the world. Mo Lowda is a four-piece indie rock band that makes their home in Philly, and they are set to head out on an album release tour later this month. Introducing seven new tracks as well as five others previously released ahead of the full album, “Mo Lowda & the Humble” is an incredible addition to an already stellar catalog.
Ambient might not be a typically thought-of adjective when describing Mo Lowda, but boy does the opening track make you want to lie back with your eyes closed and soak in the atmosphere. Somehow both abrupt and well-paced as it takes you in multiple different directions, it feels as if this song is giving you a taste of everything the album has in store. This mix combines sonic interludes that evolve into strong instrumentals, and airy vocals that lend a hand in the introduction but then lead into a heavier second half. Building itself up softly as it rises to a peak and then slowing down as it takes on a new yet comparable path, “Finally/Bet the House” takes every good part of Mo Lowda and mixes it into one track.
Mo Lowda’s introspective writing reflects their ability to let others in, allowing themselves to experience those feelings and memories again, for the first time, with the listener as a confidant. The familiarity of both the band's vocals and sound is a detail to take note of as new releases are explored. When you can recognize something you have never encountered before, I think that’s really when an artist has done their job. It’s not a repetition of material but rather something that holds its own while still being rooted in its source. Never overwhelming, Mo Lowda has found the sweet spot amidst the genesis of this era.
As the album closes with “Dog at the Pound”, you’re left to wonder how a record could so perfectly crescendo and in turn decrescendo. You’re dropped back off to a quiet exit, a synonymous experience to the album’s introduction, tying it all back together. I could spend hours and write paragraphs diving into what I think each track holds, but I think part of the beauty of this album is that we can all walk away feeling as if we, the listeners, have had a unique yet shared experience. Mo Lowda knows what works. They know what not to touch, as well as where and when to try something new. This album is a seamless dip into the resonant waters of sonic sound, sure to be welcomed by both newfound and ardent listeners.
You can listen to Mo Lowda & The Humble” here, and be sure to keep up with the guys here.
Photos by Jonah van Bemmelen
