The American Analog Set: Set Free

Cute album cover on The American Analog Set's new Set Free, and there's plenty of room in the corner for a little warning: "May cause drowsiness. Do not operate heavy machinery while listening to this album."

It's not that the album is bad, though it is uneven, with some pleasant, but pointless filler ("Immaculate Heart 2") and a couple of somewhat annoying tracks (like the meandering "Jr"). The American Analog Set is a low-fi rock band, and for the most part, Set Free is more low-fi than rock. It's mostly pretty mellow listening, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, if it's your cup of tea. I do think several of the tracks are strong, including the ones where AmAnSet rocks out (kind of, the beat at least sometimes picks up a bit, such as on the opening track "Born on a Cusp").

If you're not already a fan of American Analog Set or in general a fan of low-fi/quiet rock, listening to more than a few songs at once from Set Free may make you a bit sleepy. On the other hand, Set Free could also likely serve as a good soundtrack for smooching & groping for those who either wouldn't mind or notice songs about broken hearts and in particular the one called "Fuck This... I'm Leaving".

The band is touring Europe, Japan, and the US this Fall and Winter. More cities will be added, and there are already many dates/cities listed on their tour schedule.

mp3:The American Analog Set - The Green Green Grass (from Set Free)

mp3:The American Analog Set - Sharp Briar (from Set Free)