The Rural Alberta Advantage are one of those love em’ or hate em’ type of bands so it seems. Not because of the music they make, but primarily because of Nils Edenloff’s vocals. With Departing, the opening track “Two Lovers” is built primarily around Edenloff’s vocals singing about two lovers with some acoustic guitars, soft percussion, and keys buried behind the vocals. If you get through the first song and can handle his vocals then you are in for a treat. The album is bookended by two songs that are sparse on instrumentation, instead relying on the vocals of both Nils Edenloff and Amy Cole as they spin their lullaby “Good Night” and ballad “Two Lovers”. In between you will find strong drumming from Paul Banwatt, catchy keys and backing vocals from Amy, and Nil’s passionate and distinct vocals. They don’t stray too far from the formula used on their previous album Hometowns, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The album doesn’t feel like a lesson in Albertan geography, but it still has an almost nostalgic feeling to it as narratives of love, life, and growing up are unraveled.
Perhaps my favourite part about the band and this album is the way that each member of the band has a distinct sound and role in each of the songs. From Paul laying down a solid beat with percussion that pierces through every second of the song “The Breakup”, to Amy’s keys propelling “North Star” forward with the simple but well placed chords. First single “Stamp” is sort of like three superheroes combining their powers. Soaring vocals, drumming that makes me picture Animal from Muppets behind the drum kit, indilicious backing whoos, subtle keys and aggressive guitar. Departing showcases why the Rural Alberta Advantage have been picking up buzz wherever they go. Passion and love for music with the skills to back it up will get you places.
Grab the singles “North Star” and “Stamp” for free here.
