Step into the world of Cut Worms’ self-titled album, where the windows are rolled down, warm air embraces you, and limitless possibilities unfold. Max Clarke, the Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, masterfully crafts a nostalgic yet contemporary sound in what he calls “pop essentialism.” Drawing inspiration from the timeless hits of the past, he tackles age-old questions through a fresh lens, creating a collection of daydream anthems that straddle the hopeful beginnings of summer and the fleeting moments of its end.
Diverging from traditional recording approaches, Clarke embraces versatility throughout the album’s creation. While some tracks were brought to life in his shared rehearsal space, others found form under the skillful hands of Brian and Michael D’Addario of the Lemon Twigs in Brooklyn. The studio’s legendary aura is replaced with a more intimate, homegrown ambiance, and Clarke collaborates with a group of gifted friends and musicians, including John Andrews on keys, Keven Louis Lareau on bass, and Noah Bond on drums.
A youthful spirit resonates within the nine songs, evoking a sense of warmth and safety. From the tender school dance serenade of “I’ll Never Make It” to the starry-eyed infatuation on “Is it Magic?” and the nostalgic “Living Inside” – reminiscent of the first fall leaves on a bus ride to school – Cut Worms envelops listeners in a cocoon of emotions. Tracks like “Don’t Fade Out,” “Let’s Go Out On The Town,” and “Use Your Love” yearn for life’s transformative power while reminding us to cherish our humanity. The paradox of gaining experience while losing innocence lingers throughout Clarke’s art, mirroring life’s bittersweet journey.
In “Ballad of a Texas King,” Clarke reaches out to his younger self, acknowledging the inevitability of change. How do we hold on to our dreams? How do we navigate a world that seems lost? For Clarke, the answer lies in his art, where the pursuit of love and the quest for the perfect pop song intertwine, transporting him to an ethereal plane. Cut Worms’ self-titled album seamlessly blends wistful introspection with irresistible melodies, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the music fades. Step into this timeless journey and experience the magic for yourself. – Jason Felton