Alt-country luminaries Old 97s return with their seventh studio album in tow. It's hard to believe the Texan quartet has been rocking for 15 years, and taking into consideration the fickleness of the music industry, this is quite an achievement.
Although Old 97s have accomplished moderate success, they have not achieved the household status expected of them. Despite their lack of limelight, it is very probable that most people have unsuspectingly heard their material; several of their songs have appeared in popular US television shows like as Scrubs, Ed and Tru Calling.
Influences such as Johnny Cash, The Kinks, David Bowie and the Beatles generated the country/rock/pop template that has shaped their work. Blame It On Gravity is no different. What immediately stands out is the album's versatility. Highlights include the Southern rock snooze thwart 'Early Morning', an instant party starter perforated with fierce bass and drumming, blended with unforgiving vocals.
'Dance With Me' shows off an apparent David Bowie influence - the track sounds like an up-tempo rendition of Bowie's 'Let's Dance'. 'She Loves The Sunset' is a cool mid-tempo number which gives off somewhat of a '50s tropical island vibe. Meanwhile, the poignant country classic 'Colour Of A Lonely Heart Is Blue' is pure magic; performed by bass guitarist and customary back up vocalist Murry Hammond, it serves as a reminder that the Old 97s are proficient enough to remove the alt from the country.
Blame It On Gravity has successfully combated the attack of the filler tracks, something many albums have failed to manage. The result is a compilation that can be played through without frequently reaching for the forward button - if anything, you'll be replaying the contagious numbers that make you want to sing along joyously. While the album will undoubtedly be well received, Old 97s are likely to remain more hidden treasure than super star.
Rating: 4/5