Album Review: Uncle Lucius 'The Light'

Guitarist Mike Carpenter calls Uncle Lucius’ music “Southern rock for the thinking man. Rock ‘n’ Roll for the soul.” And that, quite frankly, could not be a more perfect description. Their new release, The Light, recorded at Austin’s Treefort Studios with producer George Reiff is set to release on June 9th via Boo Clap/Thirty Tigers. The record contains twelve tracks that supply grooves a plenty; it’s soulful, thoughtful southern rock at its best.

The message of the record is heard clearly on the initial track, “The Light.” Its scaled back introduction segues into a rootsy, bluesy melody accompanied by positive affirmation. “Let it go and flow, to grow and know from the inside out.” Calling one to look within to realize and rediscover where that light, power, and change emanates from and choosing to act with intention rather than reaction.

Horn infused “Age of Reason,” with its almost military-like percussive interlude, stresses that “how we’re different may never mean as much as how we’re kin” reminding us that we have all similar beginnings. The spritely piano and guitar are central on “Don’t Own The Right” about passing judgement, especially when we hold others to standards we may not hold ourselves to. “Some cats I know let their habits show, where they stand they can’t seem to get enough/I ain’t passing judgement I don’t own the right.”

“Taking In The View,” with its peaceful, reflective introduction (and psychedelic fiddle bridge) is inspired by the writings of Joseph Campbell. The song’s characters are from the Bible, yet portrayed in current time, contemplating their later years. Slowing down and being appreciative for life is the theme of “No Time Flat” in which he remarks that the “journey itself become reason for living,” while “Wheel’s In Motion” centers on those situations where we give up control over our actions.

Instantly addictive, the piano laden, pulsating, funky “Ouroboros” deals with holding your head up high and “walking like your feet could never fail,” while the thumping “Flood Then Fade Away” gives sound advice on dealing with your fears. “The only way around is to go into it straight feelin’ with you senses, let it flood then fade away.”

The theme of travel is also evident on the record. “End of 118,” is that place you can go, without your possessions, and be free while “Gulf Coast Gypsies” talks about the need to be on the road. “Someday Is A Far Cry,” which closes the record, echoes the sentiments heard at the beginning. “Letting go has made me lighter/I was trying to catch a fire.”

The Light is a record whose songs, both melodies and lyrics, are beautifully and thoughtfully constructed. The record is optimistic, appreciative, introspective, reflective and forward thinking, but never preachy. It simply tells honest truths that sometimes we all need to be reminded of while giving food for thought. It’s the quest to better oneself, to let go and follow one’s heart. Uncle Lucius seems to be doing just that and The Light is an inspiring record of which they should most certainly be proud.

---