the fixers red - novellus

The Fixers Red

Novellus
self-released; 2013

3.8 out of 5

By Steph Windefeldt

The Fixers Red album, Novellus, was released in the summer of 2013. Fitting the release date, the album has a jazzy, late summer vibe to it. The Fixers Red has released several albums and EP’s, and Novellus is a move toward a jazzier, pop-centric sound. The band is composed mainly of Daniel Schauer (although his wife Rebecca Schauer provides some of the vocals). Daniel, who has been playing rhythm guitar for 15 years, records everything at his home studio in Tacoma, Washington. He has been working on his recording techniques and has gotten to a place where a professional sounding album can be produced all on his own.

“Heavy Handed” is a light-sounding song. It is short and sweet with a delicate, jazz-filled sound. It is a whimsical and relaxing listen. “Unimpeachable” has a beachy, island sound in the guitar work and music. What sets this apart is the desperate drawl of the voice-work. The juxtaposition of these two sounds adds a certain depth to the music.

“Wintertime” is my favorite song on the album. The guitar is rhythmic and deep. The music builds upon itself and tells a story all on its own. “Going Up” is a cheerful tune, one that feels like a carefree walk in the park on a clear day. The call and response of guitar and drums really works to make both standouts in this song.

I feel like the greatest success on this album are the songs without lyrics. At times, the lyrics felt incongruent with the beauty and richness of the music itself. As Daniel Schauer continues to explore his craft, I look forward to new experiments in sound coming from his home studio in Tacoma, Washington. 

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