Full Catholic are a four piece band based in Minneapolis. Before even hearing a note of their music I was captivated by the title of their latest album “Every Dream At Once”. The title alone brings up so many ideas and possibilities of what this record could sound like and I was excited to dive into the tracks.
“Fly On The Wall” had me beaming right from the start as the single note of a ringing bell radiated through my ears. What followed are some of the most beautiful harmonies you will hear anywhere. This soulful, heartfelt song is truly golden. A brilliantly breezy, laid back track that culminates with a showering of intense acoustic guitar strumming and a flourishing blast of lively vocals.
Things immediately swing right into the soothing sounds of “Not Afraid Of Winter This Year”. Danielle Michaele’s voice shines bright alongside a shuffling guitar riff and in the pocket beat. Eventually the guitar breaks out into a whirlwind of chaos but only for a moment before settling back into it’s initial tempo. This is a very comforting composition that I find myself continually coming back to.
“Traveling Song” is another impressive piece full of up and down dynamics. It’s an intense one that brings to mind the slow sides of The Velvet Underground, Cat Power and Galaxy 500 but also has a swagger and flair that’s all it’s own. These aspects are further explored on “Reckon You” and “Hand Off Sparks” as the elevation of experimentation increases even more.
There’s a cool Neil Young like riff that runs through “Don’t Live Anywhere”. This might be the most intense track of them all as this song is full of grit and grime and really makes an impact on so many levels.
Meanwhile “Orbits” emits a cosmic vibe that dives into ambient/shoegaze territory and harnesses one of the most blissful moments of the album.
Everything winds down with the powerfully moving number “Sleep On Rocks”. It’s yet another top notch track that showcases how talented this group is and how they can paint highly colorful pictures through words and sounds.
“Every Dream At Once” is a magical record. There’s an honest feeling that moves throughout every song. It’s very organic and with each listen it makes you feel like you are right there with the band at all times. It embraces everything that’s good about music and how it inspires and moves us throughout this world.
Have a listen to “Not Afraid Of Winter This Year” below and enjoy the full album here.
