Son, Ambulance

By Ali Trachta in Arts & Entertainment on Jul 14, 2008 3:38PM

Omaha-based Son, Ambulance is the clever play-on-words product of Joe Knapp and various cornhusker cronies, although the aforementioned singer/songwriter has been the band’s axis. Their debut effort, Oh Holy Fools was a collaboration with Saddle Creek star Bright Eyes, and their follow-ups, Euphemystic and Key, drew from the talents of many of the labels’ frequent contributors. Son, Ambulance’s latest release, Someone Else’s Deja Vu, is mostly a solo effort by Knapp, and departs from piano domination in favor of a more musically diverse sound that incorporates complex arrangements and a wider range of instruments.

The slight country twang usually associated with Saddle Creek makes cameo appearances on this record, but it opts instead for a quieter, more pensive tone. Soothing melodies accompanied by Knapp’s soporific voice make this album one that could in fact relax the listener enough to feel like they’re sleepwalking through even the busiest of days. Ideally, though, this is an album best suited for taking a break. It’s a perfect soundtrack to a mid-afternoon beach snooze or a breezy, windows-down back road drive. Just don’t fall asleep behind the wheel.

Son, Ambulance plays two shows tomorrow, July 15:
Reckless Records, 3161 N. Broadway, 6 p.m., Free
Schubas, 3159 N. Southport, 9 p.m., $8 ($10 at door), 21+, Tickets here.