MUSIC REVIEW: BAHAMAS - 'PINK STRAT'

Music for All Moods Shows How Alt-Folk Songwriting Should Be Done

By: Jess Gronewold

April 19, 2011

(Brushfire Records / Republic Records) Bahamas. One of these things is not like the other. Don’t let the name of this act fool you. You may expect a certain sound from an act called Bahamas, but you get something entirely different and entirely wonderful. A simple, stripped-down album at first listen becomes more complex and layered each time you hear it. And it is no surprise to hear it was recorded by Afie Jurvanen in a cabin in rural Ontario in 2008 with the help of his roommate Robbie Lackritz (Jamie Lidell, Feist) and numerous friends Jurvanen made during his tours with Fist and Jason Collett. It was then released in Canada in 2009, has finally found its US home, and is sure to gain many more fans. 

The first spin, you’ll probably notice a Jack Johnson-esque vibe, but with further study, you discover the subtle cynicism and charm of Afie Jurvanen’s lyrics and more of an old folk sound. Pink Strat brings a smile to your face -- a beat to tap to and clean, great music to suit any mood. 

“Southern Drawl” presents words of wisdom in a sweet folk tune. A little slide guitar and a reminder to learn something from every situation and put it to use later. Don’t waste time on a love that’s not meant to be, just “use what you learn.”  “You’re Bored, I’m Old” brings out more of the cynical side of Bahamas -- for those who stay together despite complete lack of love. This song features beautiful guitar harmonies and a simple drum beat. You’re not sure whether to cry or sing along. Whether you feel the same way or merely empathize, it makes you feel. This theme is continued in “Till the Morning” -- a slow-paced acoustic guitar-driven tune about needing someone if only for one night. It’s simply a man (Afie Jurvanen) and his guitar. It makes your heart hurt a little to listen to this two-minute tale, but you’ll love it.

Bahamas brings a little humor to the album with the song “Hockey Teeth.” A slow, swaggering number with a wonderfully catchy chorus about loving someone's flaws along with their assets. 

The sweet and sensitive nature of Bahamas comes through in “Already Yours.” It’s an unrequited love song for the romantic in all of us, featuring soft guitars, beautiful harmonies, and a steady bass drum beat. 

The name Bahamas really comes together when you get to the last track, “Whole, Wide, World.” It brings beach sounds and thoughts of a dream-girl that might just be hiding in the Bahamas waiting for someone to find her. It’s a hopeful song of love meant to be.

Each track on Pink Strat presents a short piece of emotion. They are succinct, captivating, and endearing.  In a time when so many artists are autotuned and swallowed in a wall of sound that you’re not even sure sounds good, Bahamas is a refreshing throwback to a less-produced, genuinely talented song styling. Afie Jurvanen’s voice is beautiful and enchanting, and the instrumentation complements it perfectly. An album full of songs to fall in love to, break up to, sing in your car to…Pink Strat is a must-have for any music collector. 

For Fans Of:  Pedro the Lion, David Bazan, Jack Johnson, Iron & Wine

Standout Tracks: “Southern Drawl,” “You’re Bored, I’m Old,” “Hockey Teeth,” and “Already Yours”