Great American Racer - Great American Racer

​Great American Racer

Great American Racer
​self-released; 2023

3.9 out of 5

By Dan Weston
​

Great American Racer marks the latest venture of Jake Dryzal, a singer/songwriter hailing from Johnstown, PA. Dryzal is widely recognized for his musical contributions under the moniker Blue Navy within the realm of ambient pop. Collaborating with him is Autumn Obusek, a skilled drummer who formerly lent her talents to the Pittsburgh-based emo ensemble Al Coda. Although the inception of Great American Racer dates back to 2018, it was only recently unveiled to the public in 2023.

Dryzal's musical expressions evoke the essence of '70s folk rock, the heartfelt resonance of Bruce Springsteen's heartland rock and the ethereal allure of contemporary dream pop. The eponymous album Great American Racer delves into the harrowing subject of the heroin and opioid epidemic, a longstanding crisis that has plagued Rust Belt America for decades. It specifically sheds light on Dryzal's hometown of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, a place deeply scarred by three catastrophic floods and a profound economic downturn. Through poignant lyrics, the record skillfully draws parallels between the erosion of local industries in Johnstown and the community's enduring battle with substance abuse.

The album opens with “Desire” which is indicative of the type of ambient pop sound you can expect from the other songs. I would say the song primarily pulls on a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. It’s a solid opener and if you like this song I believe you will enjoy the entire album.

“From the River, Pt. II” is an inventive soundscape. There’s bright music that shines as a new report on substance abuse. It works and brings you into the conceptual framework. “If Only” continues to reflect on nostalgia and melancholy but on this song I definitely was feeling a sense of hope as well. Dryzal sings “If only I could make another daydream  / Of you and I together in harmony / Then maybe we could start anew and bloom here.”

“Porches” is stripped back but also surrounded in so much hall reverb it sounds like he’s playing in a cave or a cathedral. “Isn't Bright…” is a song that encompassed the general feel of the entire album. I liked it quite a bit and felt like it was one of the strongest songs.

As the album progressed I thought there were a number of highlights. “Sunrise and Mellow” is a rocking song with an anthemic chorus while “From the River” feels pensive and has some exceptional guitar work. The last “For November” was gorgeous and hits a nice balance between sadness and beauty. 

​One thing Dryzal did exceptionally well was create a seamless listening experience. The atmospheric qualities make it feel singular as well. This is an emotionally resonant album that I think a lot of people will relate to. Recommended.

Become A Fan

bandcamp

Tweet