Reviewed by Trevor Raggatt

Yesan Damen are a Seattle music collective built around singer Daniel Kwak. Their 2006 debut disc gained an impressive nine square review in Cross Rhythms so the question is begged - can they maintain the standard for their second disc? The answer is a resounding "Yes"! Their music on 'Chronos/Kairos' builds on a foundation of classic indie bands but blends those influences to create something truly contemporary and cutting edge. Here are shades of the winsome pop of Belle and Sebastian (particularly where Kwak shares the vocals with Jen Wood on "Hang On For Dear Life!" and "Osaka"). There the sound is a harder edged indie like The Electric Soft Parade with a Wheezer tinge ("Outer Space" and "American Riot"). Elsewhere there is a sparkling folk feel which recalls Sufjan Stevens tunes ("Consequence"). However, the arrangements are always subtly complex, easy on the ear and tantalising - a perfect confection of frothy pop attitude with songwriting of depth and quality. Deep indeed, as the songs tackle topics related to the passage of time - risks taken which didn't work out as planned, opportunities missed and regretted, doubt and perspective. 'Chronos/Kairos' is an impressive collection of songs by a band whose skills are clearly continuing going from strength to strength. Well worth checking out.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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