Oliver Future return with their first new record in 14 years. A Year at Home was recorded remotely in studios in Austin and Los Angeles during the lockdown of 2020-2021. The band was founded in Austin by Noah Lit (guitar / vocals), Josh Lit (vocals and keyboards), Jesse Ingalls (bass and piano) and Sam Raver (guitar) in 2002...

The one overriding element I couldn't get over whilst listening to the opening track, 'Phases of the Moon', was how similar to Pink Floyd Oliver Future sounded. Thankfully this isn't a trait that carries on throughout the album and the band morphs and weaves its way through the 9 songs (38 min, 08 sec).

As the album moves forward it soon becomes obvious how diverse this album is. Now that's either a good or bad thing depending on your point of view. Good: Because it means that fans get to experience all of the band's influences. Bad: Because it can have a tendency to feel like the band has no clear direction.

While I could have happily done without the '70s inspired 'Race to the Moon Again, Again', I think on balance this is more hit than miss.

7

Nick Smithson