The Folk Implosion
One Part Lullaby (Interscope)
Evolving from a one-off collaboration for a movie soundtrack (“Natural One” for KIDS) to a functional, evolving musical entity, Lou Barlow now has the Folk Implosion. The most noticeable change is the sense of contentedness that presides over the band’s third full-length, which is odd, considering the source. While the result does contribute to a homogenization of this project and Sebadoh, Barlow’s “other band,” One Part Lullaby is nonetheless a beautiful, well-crafted LP that proves the songwriter to be an artist who can mature in the world of modern rock & roll and still remain vital. If the lyrics reflect a rejuvenation of spirit and refreshment of personal consciousness, the good news is that they’re surrounded by some great beats and lush, intricate music; the band’s signature loopy bass lines and crackly drum tracks mesh well with Barlow’s soft, moody vocals. Of course, all is not milk and honey in California. Though he now opts to “look for magic in the daily routine” (the title track), Barlow’s still confronting the “Kingdom of Lies” as well as his own self, the “Mechanical Man.” The change in tone culminates in downright shock at the joyous, marching chorus of “Chained to the Moon,” but reconcile the fact that this is gloomy ol’ Lou Barlow singing, and One Part Lullaby makes the Folk Implosion a band — or a man — well worth grappling with.
This article appears in October 15 • 1999.