Lake Lyon - Fernweh

Lake Lyon

Fernweh
self-released; 2014

3.6 out of 5

By Ethan Skelton

So if you wanted a crisp little hybrid of Sublime, 311, and good ole rasta-pop look no further than the chill dancehall soldiers of Lake Lyon. They know what’s up on their release Fernweh with this kind brand of groove and just melt like butter down the album. The music swirls gently and breezes by, but it’s by no means a passive exercise, you’ll be hooked on these guys pretty quick. 

This is music for a good time, whether it’s a bulb-lit backyard party or just you kicking it in your basement like a weirdo - you’re gonna feel pretty damn cool. These guys tell tales and anecdotes of life while taking the good and bad in stride and finding the light in all things. Their message is coaxing and universally pleasing, just like the sweet chick and cooing compliments of guitar. 

For the most part, the drums blend right in and find great ways to pronounce moments with stop times, tom rolls, hi-hat work, and odd phrased beats. Maybe the best decision rhythmically comes during the third track, “Con Amore.” The sloshy hat smack down is simply irresistible and spot on my friends. But we’ve barely lifted the top off this group.

“Surfboard” sounds like an island jam fit for anyone looking to throw up their feet and enjoy the tide. Or whatever sight they may have out their window, best case scenario being a body of water. That’s the image I get at least, it’s all in the care-free attitude and summer time vibes. Fernweh is all about that tip and doesn’t try to veer off course just to boast some kind of stylistic diversity. If we wanted that we’d just listen to another group. I’ll bring up 311 again – those guys were eclectic as all get out. Lake Lyon keeps it fresh and keeps it consistent. 

“All I’ve Ever” is a sweep in a more indie rock direction and the sound still resonates from the same place. It’s on point vocally with some lovely melody lines and poignant resolving amidst the novelty of glee club like doo wop in the background. “Reverie” introduces a strong presence of piano and ride cymbal making this a classier piece that trades in the flip flops for some nice ballroom shoes perhaps? Again, they don’t lose their intentions, they’re just interpreted with different voices. There are some true moments of deepness to this one, a great piece to end with no doubt.

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