Walker Lukens’ madcap pop drifted through stylistic explorations beginning on 2013 debut Devoted before finding sure footing with producer Jim Eno, who’s helped wrangle his fellow local’s eccentricities into sharp pop nuggets. Like November EP Never Understood, that Spoon influence rides high behind jagged riffs, unexpected turns, and uniquely powerful hooks. Opener “Love Me Tender (Don’t Be Cruel)” pitches soulfully against the rocking “Where Is Thunder Road?,” while “Simple Man” settles smoothly against the punctured rhythm of the closing title track.

***.5

This article appears in March 31 • 2017.

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.