Album Review: Nathan Mongol Wells's "From A Dark Corner"
Photo courtesy of @joshdavidjordan_
Nathan Mongol Wells, the mastermind behind the Ottoman Turks, steps out on his own with his debut solo album, From A Dark Corner, released on August 18. This album serves as a departure from the ensemble-driven narratives of his work with Ottoman Turks, instead offering a more introspective and autobiographical perspective. Wells' solo work emerges as an intimate conversation, as if he sat down in a quiet room with a chilled glass of tequila to quiet the characters’ voices from his band's songs that were swirling in his head after a night of intense debates at a Dallas dive bar.
From A Dark Corner reveals a more traditional and honest side of Wells' artistry. The album sets out to redefine Wells' musical identity, separating him from the conspiracy-poisoned uncle, the insecure southern bro, the apathetic rocker, and the vengeful corpse of JFK—characters that populate Ottoman Turks' vibrant universe.
Growing up on the outskirts of Deep Ellum, Dallas' diverse and eclectic musical neighborhood, undoubtedly influenced Wells' creative style. His musical lineage, ranging from The Strokes to Tom Waits to Hayes Carll, further adds to the unique flavor of his compositions, setting them apart from typical Americana fare.
The album's opening track, "Beulah Land," sets the mood with its hauntingly unique melody and Wells' distinct voice. The foreboding quality in his vocals complements the song's lyrics, drawing the listener into the depths of the music. The palpable New Orleans vibes are accentuated by the sharp and catchy drum beats, infusing the track with joyful energy. Wells' skillful tonal change midway through the song keeps listeners engaged, underscoring his versatility as an artist and adding an element of surprise. The darkness in this song sets the tone for some of the album's other emotionally charged tracks, such as "Taken for a Ride," which delves into the turmoil of making unkept promises and self-discovery.
"Juarez," the following track, takes listeners on a playful journey, courtesy of its plucky instrumentation. The song exudes a sense of fun and danceability, transporting the listener to the realm of Western-infused joy. The clever arrangement, incorporating a Western draw, adds a distinct flair, creating a memorable and enjoyable listening experience. "Juarez" could easily fit into an Ottoman Turks album, showcasing Wells' ability to merge his solo work with the band's style seamlessly.
The emotional intensity of From A Dark Corner takes center stage with the third track, "In Years." This gut-wrenching song tugs at the heartstrings and envelops the listener in a reflective mood. The instrumental interlude adds a poignant touch, allowing for a brief but powerful respite from the energetic tracks that precede it.
Nathan's linguistic control and cheeky vocal performance shine through in "Rather Go to Hell," making it a standout on the album. This track offers a modern take on Johnny Paycheck's "Take This Job and Shove It,” and the playfulness and well-crafted lyrics make it a potential candidate for a series like Justified, showcasing Wells' versatility as a songwriter.
"Taken for a Ride" slows down the tempo, delivering a mesmerizing ballad that showcases Wells' lyrical prowess. The subdued instrumentation allows the song's emotional depth to shine, making it a poignant and unforgettable moment on the album.
"Two Heads" emerges as another standout with its immaculate guitar work and enthralling shuffle beat on the drums. The intriguing narrative in the lyrics piques listeners' curiosity about the inspiration behind the song, highlighting Wells' ability to tell compelling stories through his music.
"Knew You" continues the streak of excellent songs on the album. Its relatable lyrics and well-arranged instrumentation further solidify Wells' talent as a skilled songwriter and performer.
With echoes of Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire," "Honest Drinking" exudes a homey and nostalgic atmosphere, evoking the ambiance of a local bar, with a winking nihilism that adds depth to the album. The track's simplicity and authenticity are sure to make it a favorite among listeners.
"Road to Hell" brings a powerful and striking energy to the album, hooking the listener with its fascinating first line. The track's headbanging rhythm and phenomenal keyboard work maintain the momentum, adding a sense of urgency and forming an intense musical experience.
The album's closing track, "First Day It’s Warm," presents an interesting choice, offering a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. It feels like bidding farewell to a friend after a warm gathering, knowing that another encounter lies just around the corner. Through clever songwriting, Wells invites listeners to embrace their personal impulses, making it a feel-good anthem with childlike references and a sense of freedom. This closing sentiment leaves a lasting impression and rounds off the album beautifully.
Throughout From A Dark Corner, Wells' storytelling and musicianship capture the essence of his live performances that have thrilled audiences for over a decade. His stage presence remains unmatched, luring listeners and enticing them to dance along with his songs. And, despite the implications of the album's title, From A Dark Corner, there's an undeniable sense of lightness and energy to Wells' music. His ability to craft evocative and thought-provoking songs while maintaining a sense of playfulness is a testament to his artistry.The album offers a fresh and captivating experience for both long standing fans of Ottoman Turks and new listeners alike.
Overall, Nathan Mongol Wells' solo debut showcases his growth as a musician, songwriter, and performer. From A Dark Corner is a remarkable journey into the mind and heart of an artist who continues to push the boundaries of his craft. With this impressive debut, Wells solidifies himself as a rising star in the music scene, leaving us eager to witness his future artistic endeavors.