Travis Atria has dropped the slow jam of the year, thus far, with the ultra groovy “Jazz Cigarette.” All of the instruments play so well together, especially when the horns kick in later in the song (featuring Jason Prover and Doug Fischer). If you’re not paying attention, you’ll think this is a song about getting your groove on. Why wouldn’t it be? The song immediately takes you to that memorable place with that special someone. But a deep look into the lyrics tells a different story…
Temperature’s always rising
Ocean’s acidifying
Maybe it will mean the difference between living and dying
When it gets to be too much
About the song, Atria says “As far as I know, this is the only slow jam about climate change ever written. It might also be the only pop song to feature the word “acidifying.” The title and chorus were designed to counterbalance the heaviness of the verses, like if you’re not listening closely, you won’t realize what it’s about. I like the contrast. And I didn’t want this album to beat you over the head.”
Moonbrain is the first solo album from acclaimed musician and author Travis Atria, one time frontman for indie band, Morningbell. It takes sonic cues from classic artists like Curtis Mayfield and Parliament, while remaining immersed in the present moment. Conceptually, it draws on everything from climate grief, to the Beatitudes, to the oldest known song, a 3,400-year-old Sumerian hymn known as the Seikilos Epitaph. It is an album of heavy grooves and deep moods, modern tools and timeless feels, lush arrangements and adept musicianship. Moonbrain releases 2 April on Gold Robot Records.
