by Giliann Karon (@whoreby_parker)
Rootless twenty-somethings of a certain alternative subculture love Parquet Courts. During periods of transition and self-reinvention, their consistency gives transplants something to cling to. Frontman Andrew Savage’s unmistakable voice commands the listener to dissect the lyrics, rather than passively bob their heads. As his listeners start feeling rooted in their post-university towns, Savage left NYC after over a decade, where he helped construct the indie rock scene as we know it.
Usually he’s lamenting about the human condition and the world at large. On Several Songs About Fire, he turns the focus inward, wrestling with constant change and holding onto material objects to substitute for feeling grounded. He recorded this album in pastoral Bristol, England, a far cry from buzzy New York. While most Parquet Courts albums are born in the belly of the beast, A. Savage now looks from the outside.
His gravelly voice continues to be unmistakable, this time stripped down from shouty interludes and punchy instrumental breaks. Save the scraper on “Le Grand Balloon,” he mostly sticks to a basic guitar and uncomplicated backing band that let his intimate, melancholy lyrics shine. He’s not holding onto anger or sadness. Instead, he’s noticing these feelings and sending them on their way.
On “My New Green Coat,” he reflects on the material possessions he’s accumulated during his time in the city. “My collection of Items signifying love/They don’t all spark joy but they all have meaning” he purrs. Even at his most restrained, his muscular voice booms as he grapples with impermanence, whether it be his marriage or his zip code. It’s an album about loss that leads to new beginnings. The intensely personal subject matter allows his sharp songwriting skills to shine. He’s setting his past on fire and using the flames to keep himself warm.