Westerly - Rags and Ribbons

Westerly

Rags and Ribbons
self-released; 2019

​3.9 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

Westerly is a band from the San Francisco Bay Area consisting of Sterling Spence (lead vocals/ guitar), Scott Wilson (lead guitar), Jessica Lips (vocals), Jeff Peck (bass) and Brandon Seinturier (drums). The band recently released their latest EP entitled Rags and Ribbons.

The EP begins with “Build.” It starts with rolling toms, bass and soft shifting pads. I got a bit nostalgic for this song. There are some ’80s and ’90s vibes on this song. I was reminded of some of the more atmospheric work from Bruce Springsteen but more so the sense of Americana was strong in the song.

The male and female vocal harmonies are really fantastic and are the focal point of the song. I did notice the male vocals acted more as the lead. As the song progresses there is a build that leads to a very epic section. I wasn’t expecting the song to sound this intense or hopeful. The intensity dissipates fairly fast making for a comforting ending.

Up next is “Down to the Filter” which brings an electric guitar in the mix and pulls back on the pads from the first song. This song is more Americana infused with musicians like Tom Petty and Wilco coming to mind. There is a blaring guitar solo but the vocals were the main pull for me in this song as well.

They save the most funky and festive for last. “Shakin’' sounds a lot like the title and although pensive melancholy sounds good on the band I liked this exuberant song just as much. There is also a little more of a blues vibe here between the organ and lead guitar.

​I remember listening to this band's previous release a couple years back and really enjoying it. This release reminds me of why I liked them so much. These are heartfelt songs that feel undeniable organic and human. Take a listen.

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