Elvis Perkins in Dearland

(XL)

If Elvis Perkins’ 2007 debut, Ash Wednesday, was mournfully tinged by the memory of his parents (actor Anthony Perkins and photographer/9-11 victim Berry Berenson), then his follow-up feels more like a proper celebratory wake. Perkins’ funereal, imagistic pull still haunts the album, but bolstered into the Elvis Perkins in Dearland fourpiece, the eponymous LP lopes with a processional gait, especially the chain-rattling reverb of “I’ll be Arriving” and New Orleans-styled horns and jug-band stomp of “Doomsday.” Opener “Shampoo” yelps out a declarative, “Sweep up, little sweeper boy,” as if in response to his debut’s ashes and dust, while “I Heard Your Voice in Dresden” echoes Herman Dune’s quirky folk-pop melodies, and “Send My Fond Regards to Lonelyville” repeats the nasally twang of Clem Snide. Aching with the vision of light finally glimpsed through the darkness, “Hours Last Stand” swoons a Southern soulfulness, allowing for the ultimate “123 Goodbye” and beautiful closer “How’s Forever Been Baby.” (Thu., Auditorium Shores Stage, 6pm; Central Presbyterian Church, 12mid.)

***

This article appears in March 20 • 2009.

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

SUPPORT US

Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.