A Strong Debut

Review Score:

B+

February 14th / 2025 –

It’s fitting that Truman Sinclair released his debut album, American Recordings, on Valentine’s Day. Because it’s nothing if not a labor of love.

Though his first solo project, American Recordings is far from Truman’s first project. Frat Mouse is an emo rock outfit with a bit of a cult following. And he lends his guitar stylings to the band Fat, Evil Children, a band whose songs have an interesting balance of a haphazard, almost casual sound while also being very well-constructed. While the sound is very different, the composition reminds me of the most recent Vampire Weekend record in a strange way.

Elements of that carry over to Truman Sinclair’s solo material. He has two EPs under his belt, neither of which are more than a few years old (2023 and 2024). From EP number one (Friends & Family & Enemies) to EP number two (Pale Moon Pale Horse), there was considerable growth in just that short time. And that’s true of all aspects; from production to songwriting to instrumentation (all of which Truman does himself). American Recordings shares some tonal aspects of those EPs, but it’s actually far more optimistic than one might expect given Truman’s background.

In my conversation with Truman last week, he told me that this album is a sort of love letter to America. But he was clear that he’s just as unhappy with the state of the nation as many folks are these days. Rather than wallow in hopeless misery though, Truman Sinclair embraces an Americana sound that feels authentic and genuine.

Take “Joel Roberts”, for example.

Her old man, John Carter
Fought hard for the good of his brother
Got home, but he lost his leg
Lost her, got lost in the keg
He called me and I gave him my blessin’
And he died in a final confessing:
“All my baby has now is you”
So I raised her up tall and true

The songwriting on “Joel Roberts” feels classic. It’s part folk, part heartland rock, and true to Sinclair’s indie sound. It’s no surprise that he cites the likes of Waxahatchee, Pinegrove, and Springsteen as influences – because this song feels like a perfect blend of all three. While Truman reflects on the good side of America, his lyrics are reminiscent of classic folk and country (“Joel Roberts” is like a modern, indie “El Paso” by Marty Robbins). The songwriting is strong throughout. But some of the best moments are the contemplative, echoey, instrumental solos. If you find harmonica grating (first of all, go to hell), you’ll struggle with the Dylan-esque harmonica breakdowns. But as someone who loves them, I had a great time with this album. Not every song is an acoustic ballad. Some, like “Mary” and “What’s On Your Mind?” (a personal highlight for me) are driven by fuzzy electric guitar lines and more prominent percussion.

Truman Sinclair’s debut album is a strong showing. He explores the various corners of old school Americana and folk rock in a well-composed, modern way. Among similar indie folk artists, Truman strikes me as a bright spot. For an album that began as the musical equivalent of a resume for sound engineering and production, it’s damn good. Truman is certainly one to watch.

Review Score:

B+

Gubb wrote this review. You can’t get mad at Gubb.