Blurred Harmony But A Clear Vision

From first listen, the Parson Red Heads come across as posters boys for true Americana, the type that took root in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s and then quickly spread up the canyons of Laurel and Topanga before eventually reaching their apex in the sunlit deserts of California, the mountain vistas of Colorado and the honky tonk palaces of Bakersfield and beyond. Not surprisingly then, Blurred Harmony becomes more like distant echoes, Particularly as far as those early influences are concerned. That’s not to say it’s all breezy melodies and billowy harmonies, although admittedly some songs stick to that tack. Mostly though, the band seem unencumbered by expectations and more inclined to follow their muse, sourcing avowed influences that include Teenage Fanclub, Big Star and paisley pop purists of various varieties. So while it may seem incongruous to suggest songs like “Sunday Song” and “What Have I Become” resemble an odd mix of Neil Young and Pink Floyd, the sumptuous arrangements clearly suggest otherwise. Likewise, the blissful balladry of “Terrible Lie” and “Today Is the Day” maintain their upward gaze, even in spite of a tempered tone. Ultimately that makes Blurred Harmony more than a mere attempt to emulate a vintage style or sound. It is instead an effort — and a successful one at that — to reach beyond their roots and establish a new hybrid of their own.