Joe Plummer
Built in Sun
Reviewed by: Fareeha Naim
A follow up to the percussion project Hew Time with Dale Crover and Cody Willis, Joe Plummer is once again putting his drumming abilities at the forefront of his career. Known for his work with bands like The Shins, Modest Mouse and Cold War Kids, Plummer is no stranger to the art of recording an album and songwriting. And if you enjoy any of the bands he’s played for, you’ll most definitely enjoy Built in Sun. What started as an instrumental project between touring with The Shins and Cold War Kids evolved into so much more. Combining his talents with vocals by Pall Jenkins of the Black Heart Procession, this is an album you don’t want to skip.
The whole album has a fun, indie rock feel that has you engaged from the first track, “Honeybear.” Warm, upbeat, and catchy, it sets the tone for the rest of the songs. From the calming “OK” to the bold and punk-edged “John John,” Plummer experiments with all kinds of emotions in his songs. Each one tells a story, letting Jenkins’ simple voice and Plummer’s methodical rhythms take control. It’s a testament to how casual melodies and combinations craft lasting impressions with the music. “Due to Rain” makes the same drum loops sound brilliant. “G Nights” is a minute and a half long, but that’s more than enough time for it to give you a warm and fuzzy feeling inside, making you want to close your eyes and smile peacefully. With just nine tracks, this debut leaves the listener eager for more.
After bouncing from successful band to band for the past decade, Plummer has taken all his musical experience and created pure, carefree music. Built in Sun reminds us that in the midst of complex visions and distinctive compositions, modest feel-good albums can still be envisioned and written. Fresh, relaxed songs with which you can just sit back, unwind, and forget the world for a while.
Rating: Bad-Ass
