Sam Evian’s latest record, Plunge, sounds exactly like how it was made, over bucolic winter days at his upstate New York studio, surrounded by musician friends, taking daily plunges in a cold creek in the snow, and letting the songs unfold live in the moment. An artist known for his especially chill ’70s grooves, Evian hasn’t lost that sensibility, but he is (pun intended) plunging to new depths in his singing, songwriting, and arrangements. The result is his strongest record yet.
Before Plunge, hearing the typically soft-voiced Evian really unleash his vocals was a rarity. His sweet spot seemed to be in that wisp-thin higher register, layered and fuzzed until it became its own unique, but subdued, instrument. On Plunge, he shines with a more full-throated sound, matched by louder, more clamoring guitars and percussion, best showcased on songs “Why Does it Take So Long?” and “Wind Blows.” The former boasts a particularly gnarly guitar solo from Big Thief’s Adrienne Lenker that warrants repeat listens and head-thrashing.
When this progression is most satisfying, though, is when he nails something right smack in the center, his signature smooth, spirited groove with a jolt of melodic gusto and verve. Album opener “Wild Days” is a standout in this realm, as is the driving “Another Way,” all bursting harmonies, and the pedal steel number “Stay.” Plunge is at its most rewarding when Evian expands on his sound, rather than abandoning it completely.
All that soaking in icy waters did more than just push Evian forward sonically. It also opened him up to some weighty storytelling. Plunge is inspired by the ups and downs of his parents’ relationship, which prompted him to explore his own path. “Is it real or is it just wasted?” He wonders on the shimmery beauty “Rollin’ In,” a song about the cyclical nature of life. “It’s just getting harder and harder to taste it.” It is Evian at his most present and engaged. All he had to do was let go.
Sam Evian’s Plunge is out March 22 via Flying Cloud Records and Thirty Tigers.
