Straying from indie rockers Otis the Destroyer, Taylor Wilkins strips back guitars to push his songwriting to the fore on his five-cut solo debut. His nasal pull rings like early Langhorne Slim, always on the edge of a cry without ever quite losing control. Trembling “Karma Is a Big Killer” and “Hay Jean” flow with a patient anxiety, and closer “Strangest Place” boils over with a touch of Thom Yorke and grander swell.

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This article appears in September 28 • 2018.

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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.