Track of the Day: The Hope Trust- Whatever Suits You
17 Dec
The Hope Trust
(Note: Due to the sheer number of submissions we receive there is no way we can give each and every album the attention (and word count) they deserve, but we can devote time to at least one song from each. So we started this feature to give worthy bands, and their music a spot to shine. We hope this helps you discover new and exciting acts, and as always if you enjoy the music please make an attempt to support the artist by either attending a show, or buying a record.)
By Jesseca Bagherpour
I realize I’m a little late with my discovery of The Hope Trust. They released The Incurable Want, the album today’s track comes from, in June 2007 and released a self-titled EP before that. All of that came after singer/songwriter Kelly Upshaw started the band as a solo project. But now that I’ve finally listened to the band, I’m thoroughly impressed.
They have elements of some of my favorite artists–Wilco, The Pernice Brothers and Bob Dylan, among others. Speaking of Dylan, Upshaw sounds strikingly like Bob’s son Jakob (with a little more grit), although I’ll take The Hope Trust over The Wallflowers or even Jakob’s recent, more mature work.
The Incurable Want is an apt title for the album. I find myself feeling a familiar ache in the pit of my stomach, that wistful pang that comes when I think about failed or missed opportunities, especially romantic ones.
The Hope Trust- Whatever Suits You
Verdict: It was difficult to pick on stand-out track from the album, but “Whatever Suits You” embodies its best elements–evocative lyrics, gorgeous vocal harmonies, twangy steel guitar and immaculate drumming. It’s mournful yet uplifting, like all great love songs.