Knock Knock Get Up

One word: Grammy.

The David Wax Museum works hard. Previous efforts were impressive and pleasing but none have had the effect of Knock Knock Get Up. Their sound has expanded and evolved while still holding onto the roots that make it special. A result of these musicians striking ambition. They work hard and you can hear it in every chord. The new album once again seamlessly blends traditional Mexican music with American folk. The result of this mixture, as they have proved before, is a collection of thoughtful songs with a wonderful balance of fun, care, and accessibility, All while still managing to be original. The lyrics on a few tracks evoke certain emotions while the song progression suggests another, a great trait of David Wax's songwriting. While some tracks have a surprising and enjoyable mystery behind their intentions, other's have music and lyrics that go together beautifully much like "A Dog in this Fight. The pairing of music and lyrics creates a power punch of a song. Accompanied by Suz Slezak, the singing never fails to disappoint. Wonderful harmonies fill songs with joy, enhance their meaning, and pull them all together. Ms. Slezak shines on the hauntingly beautiful "Wondrous Love." I was hoping she would get an opportunity to stand out on this record and I was thrilled with the emotional song she contributed. The song is delicate and fragile in the best way possible. At times it seemed that if her voice got too loud the song and emotion would disappear from it, it takes talent and passion to make a slow song like "Wondrous Love" consistent and convincing too the end. I know at least one other player contributes music to David Wax Museum and his contribution does not go unheard, this is some of the best accordion playing you'll hear all year. "Vivian" is a musical and lyrical treat for the ears. The accordion, harmonies, and smartly plucked guitars create an enjoyable tune and by the end you really want Vivian to let him in. I would list other notable songs, but in the end they are all notable. Knock Knock Get Up is a fantastic album and one of my favorites of the year. This album is a must buy and catch them live if you can, they put on an incredible performance. Their palpable hard work and ambitions shine through their music. Look for more from these guys.