Great songwriting, real instrumental vibrancy and raw, passionate rock and pop vocals that feel anthemic and contrastingly gentle, throughout a well-structured gem of a single. Austin band Larsen West get the chemistry just right, with the timeless euphoria and energy of Fool’s Gold.
Noting a style something like Americana Noir, Fool’s Gold depicts hints of influence ranging from the mighty Blondie to U2, The Smiths and even The Last Dinner Party. The song is huge, a classic rock set-up but with twists of Americana twang and superb melodies weaving their way through an immersive mix.
The rock set-up is awesome, we begin with a kind of stop-start groove from the guitars, bass and drums, and the vocal delivers short lines equally indie-rock-like, as we build towards an addictive crescendo for the chorus.
Larsen West’s presence here is infectious, a faultless performance from the band, with a questioning hook that feels nostalgic and satisfying at its peak. Then that three-chord snappy instrumental refrain returns, and the song asserts its own distinct identity with all of these building blocks united – high passion from the singer, versatility from the tune, unity from the band, and an immense mountain top complete with a guitar solo and lashings of reverb for the final third.
Easily one of the best alternative rock songs to hit the scene this season so far, and a lasting testament to the presence and power of Larsen West, as both a songwriting act and a group of captivating performers.
Find Larsen West on Facebook, Instagram.
Hi Rebecca,
Quickly… Austin is misspelled. Larsen West isn’t a person – it’s the name of the band. The leader is Lauren Warner who is the singer and songwriter
Thanks Eric, understood – just hit refresh.