Album Review: “Waiting on the Flood”-Austin & the Avenue
Austin & the Avenue are a Folk/Rock group based out of Fort Wayne. Austin Marsh, being the band leader, is often in charge of acoustic guitar, bass and vocals. "The Avenue" consists of three others; Colin Boyd on drums, Jonah Leatherman on guitar and Tommy Saul on keys. Currently, there are 2 albums credited to the band; "Bohemians" which was released in 2021, and "Waiting on the Flood" which followed a year after.
The latter mentioned album, is the kind that brings forth a wave of emotions.
"By Your Side" starts the experience with catchy guitar licks, and uplifting organ and flowy vocals. It's a song meant for driving down the road in a carefree state of mind, with no plan or worries head. It is perfect for the opening track as it catches the attention of the listener. Following suit, "Dirt on My Hands" gives those same vibes as well; with soft flowing chords, heavy piano and soft vocals. With lyrics like "I wanna go and dance on the breeze" , it ignites the feeling of the desire for happiness. Yet it poses a reminder that "Waiting on the Flood" is okay; and that while things don't always go our way, we can keep living.
"Turn the Key", "City Girl", and "Jailbird". These songs have very different messages construed in them, yet the sound in them are alike. Each has that influence of pop that comes out through the lighter guitar parts and bouncy key progressions. The vocal style is reminiscent of an 80's love song, which can ignite a sense of nostalgia. The best part, though, is that each song holds a different story. "Turn the Key" speaks of not feeling like yourself, "City Girl" about a newfound curiosity, and "Jailbird" about feeling locked up.
The album also comes with its darker songs alongside the cheery, pop vibes that are presented. "Balanced on a Wire" is an acoustic ballad with a bit of a deeper undertone. This transitions the listener from the happier emotion, to one that is more dark.
However, the album is rounded out perfectly with positive outlook. The last two songs finalize the journey of emotions quite well. With "Keep on Growing" providing that sense of longing or dreaming; it seems to represent the need or want to get away from problems in life. This song represents wanting to escape everyday life to chase those dreams that may just be unrealistic. On the other hand, "I Know That You're There" provides a sense of closure. "My sorrows will be small. All I know is, fear is gone". As this album takes you through a journey of reflection, it is quite nice to hear it end with a sense of optimism. It truly is just a "feel-good" song.
Overall, the album truly is amazing in the way it guides you through so many different stories, but with such beautiful and unique melodies.
Austin & The Avenue plan to release a 3rd album sometime in the summer! Until then, please check out their current discography as you will not be disappointed!
Listed below is a link, so you can listen to their collection on Spotify!
Austin & The Avenue