Buxton: Nothing Here Seems Strange

Buxton
Nothing Here Seems Strange
New West Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Third album from folk-rock group Buxton is a grower that pays off!

Album Review:
Buxton are a five piece folk-rock outfit out of Houston, Texas that offer up an energetic record full of lush harmonies, mandolin, banjo, piano and good old guitar. Nothing Here Seems Strange is the groups third record overall and first LP for New West as their style is a perfect fit for the label's roster.

Buxton succeed here as their music has a winning timeless appeal right from the opening banjo strums in album opener "Wolves And Owls" and record highlight "Blown A Fuse". This track has an upbeat old school Wilco bounce to it that has a catchy pop chorus and a stand out guitar solo which drives the track home.

These types of Americana blend reoccur on Nothing Here Seems Strange which helps give the record a high replay value. Lead singer/guitarist Sergio Tervino also raises the bar here as his distinct vocal stays out in front but always comes across a bit fragile. This vulnerability lets the band twirl the music around the vocals as both components work hand in hand to build the record's solid song structures. Nothing Here Seems Strange is an album that deserves several listens as it is a true grower but in a genre that is full of options, Buxton stand out and are a band to watch in 2012!

Key Tracks: "Blown A Fuse", "Boy Of Nine", "Oh My Boy"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Gram Parsons
Wilco
Clem Snide

Buxton Website
Buxton Facebook
New West Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony