Gitkin's "Golden Age" Is a journey through Twang, Psychedelia, and Global Grooves
On his new album Golden Age, Brian J. Gitkin, the reigning king of cumbia, delivers a lush, sonic tapestry that’s as expansive as it is intimate. Rooted in the rich musical traditions of New Orleans but infused with global influences, this ten-track masterpiece is a mostly instrumental exploration that feels timeless, yet distinctly modern. With Gitkin’s Silvertone guitar at the forefront, the album seamlessly weaves together psychedelic sounds, desert rock, and electrified chicha, paying homage to both the past and the present.
What makes Golden Age so compelling is Gitkin’s ability to bring his eclectic inspirations into a cohesive and deeply immersive soundscape. His guitar work—reminiscent of 1960s twang legend Duane Eddy—echoes through each track, guiding the listener across different sonic terrains. It’s an album that evokes the spirit of dusty roads, desert nights, and sun-soaked days, yet it feels polished, precise, and masterfully produced. Collaborating with multi-instrumentalist Assaf Spector, Gitkin has crafted a record that nods to the classics while pushing the boundaries of what instrumental music can achieve.
The album opens with "High Noon," a track that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the journey. The melody feels like it’s lifted straight from a classic Western, with twangy guitar riffs reverberating over a backdrop of slow, hypnotic rhythms. It’s a seductive introduction, luring the listener into Gitkin’s world. The mix is rich but never overbearing, with each note carefully placed to create a sound that is warm, inviting, and slightly mysterious.
From there, Gitkin takes us on a ride through a myriad of sonic landscapes. There’s a distinct groove to these songs that’s reminiscent of bands like Khruangbin or BALTHVS, yet Gitkin’s sound is wholly his own. He manages to balance the relaxed, almost dreamy mood with an undercurrent of energy that keeps the album from ever feeling monotonous.
One of the standout tracks is "Go Time," which kicks things up a notch with its upbeat tempo and driving rhythm. The track pulses with a kinetic energy that’s infectious, and it’s hard not to get swept up in its cheerful, danceable groove. Gitkin’s guitar takes center stage here, moving fluidly between sharp, precise riffs and more languid, wandering solos. It’s the kind of song that feels equally at home blasting out of a car stereo on a road trip or filling a dance floor in a smoky bar.
There’s an effortless coolness to his style, a laid-back swagger that’s felt even in the album’s quieter moments. Yet, beneath the smooth exterior, there’s a depth and complexity to his compositions that reveals itself upon repeat listens. Each track is layered, with subtle flourishes that bring new textures and colors to the music, creating a listening experience that’s both meditative and exhilarating.
Assaf Spector’s contributions as producer and multi-instrumentalist are also worth noting. His work behind the scenes helps to create the album’s rich, full sound, and his own instrumental flourishes add a layer of sophistication to the arrangements. Together, he and Gitkin have created an album that feels like a labor of love, a carefully crafted piece of art that rewards the listener with something new every time.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this album is a must-listen. It’s a beautiful, immersive experience that will transport you to another world, if only for a little while. It’s one of those records that absolutely deserves a front to back uninterrupted listen. So please, click all those links below to listen and of course to follow along for more.
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