Strange Negotiations by David Bazan

posted in: Music Review, September 2011 | 2

I am so pleased to review this release by David Bazan. I loved Pedro the Lion when the band was together, and I equally love Bazan’s solo career. I think that Bazan is an amazing songwriter and a brilliant communicator. I was so stunned by his last release, Curse Your Branches, that I really didn’t think it was possible for him to top that. Branches was released on vinyl, CD, download and as a DVD which was up close and intimate just like the music. This newest release, Strange Negotiations, not only tops Branches, but it exceeds that potential and moves in a forward progression that gets better with each and every listen.

Musically I would classify this as indie pop/rock that is full of melody and strains of angst. Bazan’s voice is an instrument in and of itself and it lends so well to the emotions that charge and incite the lyrics to penetrate and provoke. The other thing that I love about this record is the timing. The timing and delivery are always off balance in a way that works so well and really lets Bazan explore the framework of the song and the best place for lyrical impact. The fragility and depth is conveyed in a language that demands the listener’s attention.

The stories told here are unique. To not acknowledge Bazan’s personal journey would be like avoiding the big elephant in the room for a Christian magazine like Down the Line. Bazan solidifies his search for what the truth is in his own life, and he continues to question and address the circumstances that he faces as it relates to himself as a person, a father and a husband. I appreciate the music, the story and Bazan’s willingness to be honest and share his journey. I think that is what makes art real. This is a great release, and it is available in any format you could want. Support this artist and check him out. Bazan really lays it out there this time and he continues to just get better and better!

[2011 Barsuk Records | Purchase: davidbazan.com]

2 Responses

  1. Right on Steve, it is a great release. Standout tracks for me so far are “Virginia” and “People”.

    • Yeah man, ‘People’ is such a great track, perhaps the best one on the record. I also really dig ‘Level With Yourself’ and the title track. Lyrically I think some of his best for where he is in life and what he has been through. Great record all around!!!!!

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