There are few musicians who you may consider to be real artists these days. Most people in music today feel prepackaged. They’re already branded, have a product line and before you know it, they’re gone. There’s no staying power. However, there are some albums that aren’t just car-songs or background music. New music like Dru Cutler’s ‘Bring Closer the Distance’ forces you to stop what you’re doing and listen.
Cutler’s EP is filled with haunting melodies and feels deeply personal. Starting the lyrical journey is ‘Most of now’ which reflects a plea for the world to stop. If we could stop arguing, or talking over each other and just be, there’s the possibility that we could enjoy the moment. The sense of urgency is a slow burn as guitar riffs seem to play a duet with Dru’s vocals. It is reminiscent of The Beatles ‘Hey Jude’ where just before they broke up, the music meant something to your soul. ‘Judy’ may wreck you. It’s a letter of reminiscing the good pieces of someone who mysteriously up and leaves your life. You want answers, but all you’re left with are the questioning bits. You also want the song to continue. Like Dru, you’ll want to try to understand why a person who seems invested in you disappears.
The poignant piano playing and guitar lyricism on the first three tracks makes way for ‘Reach the Light.’ It has an early eighties punk vibe – the type of song that would be on the track of ‘The Breakfast Club.’ This song feels as if it should be listened to at a crux point in your life. Either you’re going to fulfill your dreams or you realize you’re not going to accomplish anything. Then this short album shifts again to a slow jam. ‘Dance Me to the End of Love’ is a take on the original done by Leonard Cohen. Dru makes you appreciate a waltz done in the style of a haunting folksong.
With a handful of tracks Dru Cutler explores depression, loss, first love in a way that brings you back to the days of listening to music. Just when you think there’s a space where you may mentally check out a drumbeat will bring you to attention. Or, a lyric will make you take notice. Overall, the tone of the album, is similar to the track ‘Oceanside’ where you’ll experience a sensation of cresting waves. Water after all is healing and this album may get you in a headspace where you’re receptive to someone telling you it’s okay to be sad or maybe have some hope. Or, just be.
Photos by Vladimir Weinstein
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