With three records in just two years,
John Vanderslice is already proving himself to be a prolific songwriter who can put together an admirable concept record. Like
Time Travel Is Lonely,
The Life and Death of an American Fourtracker tells a story of solitude and, ultimately, the downfall of its protagonist. A boy obsessed with producing home recordings may not sound as sad as someone stuck in Antarctica without communication, but through
Vanderslice's lyrics and wonderful arrangements, a powerful misfortune emerges. With help once again from indie rock friends such as
Spoon,
Death Cab for Cutie, and Beulah, he shows a developing interest in peculiar sounds as well as chamber pop, most notably on "The Mansion," which blossoms into a jubilant chorus. The examination of a recording device in "Me and My 424" establishes a sense that this genuine tale isn't too far from being autobiographical. And given
Vanderslice's number of hours spent in his Tiny Telephone studio, it wouldn't be a surprise. ~ Kenyon Hopkin