ALBUM REVIEW: “Outside Love” Pink Mountaintops

Pink Mountaintops
Outside Love
[Jagjaguwar]

Steven McBean’s lighter, more experimental band Pink Mountaintops returns for Outside Love, a romantic and fun listen. In many ways it’s an ode to love and friends, and it sounds like a bunch of people that like each other got together and made a record, which they did. There are more than 16 members in the band. McBean thrives in collaboration, especially when he harmonizes with Amber Webber, also a member of Black Mountain.

“Holiday” is the best example of this togetherness: “Everyone I love deserves a holiday in the sun. Almost everyday, til the lions are all off of their backs.” On “And I Thank You” he sings “Tonight I’m in love with all the lovers, with their loose hips and pouty lips. Just for tonight let’s forget all the sad songs. Because in my heart I know it’s going to be all right.” Yes! McBean is definitely laying down some good vibes, and it sounds great over a minimalist country-inspired backdrop. The only song that seems not fully developed is the title track. It drags a little, but even it has some redeeming qualities including an interesting synth line paired with a whistle.