Album Review: Papercuts’ Parallel Universe Blues Helps You Move
Are we creatures of habit? Part of the reason it is so hard to heal old wounds or behavioral flaws is because we get used to them in the same way we grow accustomed to what we like and gives us joy. Hence, one, different move can shift into major changes. Papercuts’ sixth album Parallel Universe Blues reflects Quever’s recent move from long-time musical home San Francisco to Los Angeles.
There is a searching and self-exploration that accompanies leaving your home, your friends and your scene. Hence, Lead singer Jason Quever will be the first to admit, “It’s a record about re-discovering love, losing cynicism and finding a new path.” Such a truth can be heard in songs like, “Waking Up,” “How To Quit Smoking,” and “Clean Living.” Quever uses his voice and verses to wittily embrace his depression and his struggle to be excited for his new life. He is torn between hopefulness and distress because San Francisco and Los Angeles may be in the same state, but they are different worlds.
Growing accustomed to one city over the other is never easy, especially if you are doing it superficially: not spiritually. Beyond difference in cultures, moving from one city to another means a difference in people, particularly, the ones you love. Suddenly, meeting those you care about becomes rare, and Quever observes the psyche change in tracks such as, “Laughing Man” and “Kathleen Says.” Hooks and melodies seems to clap and clip with tempos that show the ups and downs of self-improvement when you no longer have friends to distract you family to easily comfort you. When all you have is yourself, then you need to build yourself as your own support.
Sometimes, raising yourself from your sadness can feel like a guitar-led jam session, “Walk Backwards,” at times it can feel dreary, “a All Along St. Mary’s,” and other times it can be dreamy, “Looking Through Heather.” Yet, such dynamics make sense because any move you make in life, both literally and figuratively, will push you to grow. Changes asks you to step up the current version of you. Through an indie-rock soundscape, you feel Quever’s growth, and feel welcomed into his journey. Buy Papercuts’ Parallel Universe Blues Here.
