While it’s certainly not the most original record you’ll hear this year (being largely poor as it is in novelties of sound and structure), it’s one that should offer temporary solace, at least, to anyone who’s ever been inundated by life’s crap.
Beyond all the heartbreak, Lortz has penned a beautiful record of someone taking those first few difficult steps.
Working one’s way out of a depression of any sorts is always an uphill struggle, and the content on This Is Another Life shows that.
The execution of This Is Another Life may be its best feature, but “Villain” shows Lortz is at his best when he assesses the damage, rather than splitting it sideways.
His plummy, low voice, the most direct and unavoidable connection to the National, draws your attention to the shape of his words and lines and makes some very unattractive sentiments ring with dark beauty