Review by Quinn Donoghue – Tedeschi Trucks Band’s new album, Crescent, is the first installment of the four-album series, Iam the Moon. Each installment will be accompanied by a correspondent film to provide a visual component as well. It’s clear that the band is exploring new creative territory with this grand project, yet the five songs on Crescent indicate that the beloved group isn’t straying too far from what has made them a powerhouse name in the world of blues, soul, and rock n roll. The album is fueled by picturesque storytelling, soulful compositions, and of course, Derek Trucks’ signature mind-bending slide-guitar chops. The project as a whole is inherently distinguished from anything else the band has done given the conceptual idea. But musically speaking, these songs appear to be derived from the many classic influences that have helped Tedeschi Trucks Band attract such a loyal following. The group is firmly entrenched in their traditionalistic sound; however, their boundless creativity and exceptional craftsmanship allows their new music to be unmistakably fresh and authentic.
To kick things off, “Hear my Dear” encapsulates the feeling of smoothness in every sense of the word. The buttery guitar lines, Susan Tedeschi’s grainy vocals, and understated rhythm sections make this song float like a crisp cool breeze on a summer day. Its soothing vibe and emotional lyrics evoke similarities to The Allman Brothers classic, “Melissa.” It’s a song that appears to be inspired by nostalgia, memories, and big dreams, straddling the line between melancholy and joyfulness, but unequivocally beautiful. “Fall In” shifts to more of an upbeat swing with punchy piano riffs, amusing lyrics, and a protuberant horns section. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet there’s no denying that it is bolstered by some serious players who are in complete command of their instruments. The album reverts back to a full-on explosion of soul with the project-titled “I Am the Moon.” It is slightly reminiscent of the Rolling Stones classic “Wild Horses” and the track gradually builds into an epic outro that overlaps impassioned vocals, glorious harmonies, and a remarkable Derek Trucks guitar solo.
The fourth track, “Circles ‘Round the Sun” highlights the dazzling vocal chops of Susan Tedeschi, as she sustains an unbelievable amount of power behind every drawn-out note, exuding every bit of emotion her soul has to bare. The all-star supporting cast also deserves a round of applause on this number. Simply put, the drum beat is groovy as hell, the horns are flawlessly implemented, and the backing vocalists chime in with a straightforward, yet vigorous melody. To close out the first installment, “Pasaquan” struts along for 12 minutes, never failing to be invigorating or enchanting throughout the entire stretch. The intro reminds me a bit of Hendrix’s “One Rainy Wish” with the psychedelic, spacey guitar intro. Though Trucks’ guitar work is sensational for the duration of the album, “Pasaquan” specifically shines a light on why Trucks is considered to be one of the greatest guitarists of his generation. His tone is impeccable, each note is precise and clearly articulated, his technical brilliance is unparalleled, and his melodic phrasing is otherworldly. Trucks is one of the few guitarists in the world who can leave a listener yearning for more after a lengthy tune such as this one.
There’s an unadulterated sense of purity with Tedeschi Trucks Band that makes them so delightful and inviting, even to those whose musical interests fall outside the blues-rock universe. No flashiness, flamboyance, nor gimmicks are needed with this band. They simply make really good music with honest lyrics. The musicianship is world class and intricate at times, yet it is effortless to absorb. After listening to Crescent, I felt like my soul was quenched in a manner so satisfying, I can hardly wait for the next installment. For now, playing these five songs on repeat is hardly anything to complain about. Check out the album on June 3rd when it releases!
