David Allred is reflective on thoughtful new LP

The first solo album by David Allred (collaborator with Peter Broderick on last year’s Find the Ways) is a thoughtfully constructed sequence, developing ideas of change across stages of life, yet going beyond obvious observations on time’s winged chariot. For instance, “For Catherine E. Coulson” is a simple yet startlingly beautiful instrumental tribute to the actress who played the Log Lady in Twin Peaks.

Allred’s narratives and vocal tones bring to mind some of Mark Kozelek’s finer compositions, as in “Randy and Susan” where youthful corruption ultimately leads to an onset of physical deterioration. The plangent piano accompaniment is perfectly judged throughout the track. The album’s production is particularly accomplished, with treatment of harmonies clearly indebted to Brian Wilson on tracks like “The Garden”, but Allred is willing to take a few risks that persuade without its ever feeling contrived. It’s a brave move, and one thoroughly vindicated by the outcome.

The vocal range is not especially broad, but there is intelligent use of strings and trumpet (among others) to flesh out the skeletal arrangements. Results, as in “The Mirror of Time”, are affecting without ever falling into the sentimental. These are compositions of sharp and sympathetic observance. Allred suggests physical and emotional fragility very well, based on an astute understanding of those who wonder how their time seemed to have gone so fast as they look back, so that overall this series of sepia-tinged depictions is subtly rewarding.