The Blind Tellers - The Blind Tellers

The Blind Tellers

The Blind Tellers
self-released; 2014

3.7 out of 5

By Ethan Skelton

The Blind Tellers take it slow out the gate. The opener of their self-titled album The Blind Tellers fades into the listener’s ears like a soft dream that can’t decide if it should end or not, soft and vivid like the sunset. The vocals are rich and confident with fantastic instrumentation from the subtle shaker to the commanding organ. The album art sets the tone in and of itself. Take a look and get lost in the variance of stroke width and color saturation. It’s whimsical and psychedelic, but also holds a strong root in what it means to be indie rock, to think simpler and beyond the veil of the conformist, to act on your true emotions. These guys take wild imagery and give it purpose. I want to be that person amidst the surreal. 

“One More Time” showcases a bagpipe intro that takes you to the highlands and back. The acoustic evens out the sound along with Matt Gentile’s pure voice taking leaps and striking with ease. He soars with a full timbre that seems fashioned by Jim Morrison and Eddie Vedder. It’s something to really sit back and enjoy. He doesn’t require constant doubling or harmony either to make an eye widening performance. That’s exceptional in a world where we tend to be suckers for flair. 

“All We Said” goes back to the slow and steady groove and adds a pinch of the blues for good measure. That fat backbeat could be a little more present in my opinion, but I’m glad it was enough to get me thinking. The guitar rides a beautiful wave and rings out despite the band breaks up until it’s ultimate climax just before the song’s understated exit.

“Angela” closes off the album in a great way. We have Gentile joined by the equally rich voice of Jamie Coppa. It’s harmonious and sad at the same time. Sad might not be the right word because you can’t help but smile throughout. The group lets the harmonica shine, but I was hoping for a return of the flugelhorn. Nonetheless, this song delivers and I love the name Angela so more power to them. The Blind Tellers album fits like a glove for backyard or front porch swing relaxation. Get some sweet tea and kick up your feet.

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