Dry Lightning: Bathymetry Album Review
Reviewed by Harry Kaplan
There are a few certainties in life: death, taxes, and if Patrick Storedahl is working on a musical project, it’s going to be great. Whether it’s solo work or collaborations, they are all top-notch. His latest project, Dry Lightning, is no different. I’m absolutely dumbfounded by how infectious and just flat-out beautiful this album is. Kate Masterson, the lead vocalist, has an amazing voice that is major label worthy. That’s no exaggeration. Kate wrote or co-wrote, with Patrick Storedahl, all of the songs on this release. All songs are crafted with the utmost precision. Many genres are represented on Bathymetry, from country to rock, rhythm and blues, and 90’s alternative, which creates a rich tapestry of sound.
Kate’s voice is captivating and memorable. Her versatility is impressive, easily traversing multiple singing styles and deliveries with ease. Each track feels fresh while still maintaining a cohesive essence that defines the album. All of the songs are extremely well written and radio-friendly.
Bathymetry hits the ground running with the opening track, Drifter Like Me, which is a blissful country number that begins with Patrick Storedahl playing some impressive honky tonk piano licks. Kate’s vocals kick in quickly, showcasing an absolutely perfect country voice that captures the listener’s attention from the outset. She delivers a “honky tonk hiccup” that icons like Dwight Yoakam and Neko Case would wholeheartedly approve of. The narrative unfolds as a love story about a wanderer who falls in love with a cowboy. While it may seem to be a happy song overall, it definitely has some strong elements of melancholy woven into the fabric of its lyrics. This duality really gives this song a razor-sharp edge, striking a balance between joy and sorrow.
The album deviates slightly from country music and establishes its alternative roots with the title track, Dry Lightning. This song is not only perfect for today’s musical landscape but would have also fit seamlessly on mid-90s alternative radio. Once again, Kate’s voice serves as the focal point in this musical menagerie. The vocals and musical phrasings are unconventional, and the envelope is almost overflowing with sound, creating an immersive listening experience. Patrick pulls double duty on this track by playing both electric guitar and keys, enhancing the richness of the arrangement. Kate uses the term “dry lightning” as a metaphor to describe herself as something beautiful, unpredictable, and a bit dangerous. She exclaims, “I’m dry lightning – there’s always a chance I’m gonna set your world on fire.”
It’s been said that there is no place like home, and on Lewiston, ID, Kate returns to her roots. Not only are her vocals a standout on this track, but she really showcases her guitar chops with a stellar acoustic guitar solo that leaves an impression. The lyrics are both evocative and provocative. It appears to be a song about unrequited love, a theme that fits in perfectly with the essence of country music.
Dry Lightning is a beautifully crafted album that showcases the immense talent of all the participants, from the meticulous songwriting to the sophisticated production techniques. Each track invites the listener to experience a rich tapestry of emotions while maintaining a distinct and cohesive sound that resonates throughout the entire album. The varied musical influences can be heard, and the seamless transitions between genres provide a fulfilling listening experience.
Listen and buy Bathemetry here.