Today’s world feels like it tends toward maximalism, especially as more music and media is released than ever. It’s against this dense backdrop that the debut release from Fort Collins ethereal indie folk band Ducki stands out, aggressively using space, slow tempos, and dynamic, mesmerizing progressions to create a moment of relief from the busy outside world.
The band released ‘The Duck’ in May, offering a paced, 11-track collection of well-crafted rock and folk songs with an introspective underbelly. The recording includes vocalist Signey Bowling, vocalist-guitarist Brooke Apana, guitarist Brian Zitti, drummer Will Erhart, and bassist Andy Poitras.
The record presents an indie folk sound in conversation with Adrianne Lenker and Big Thief, Alex G, and at times some of the dreaminess of Beach House. However, ‘The Duck’ also stands entirely on its own with a cohesive, albeit far-reaching rock sound behind Apana and Bowling’s haunting vocals.
The album was recorded and mixed by Shane Zweygardt (Dead Pioneers), mastered by Ryan Adams, and was tracked to tape on a Tascam 388.
“We recorded in our drummer Will’s basement, so it was a comfortable and sort of silly vibe the whole time we recorded,” the band says.
From slowcore moments of unrelenting intensity like intro track “Reborn,” to the warm, twangy elements of pedal steel by Ryan Nash and organ played by Erhart on “Banjovi,” the record has a cozy, organic thread running through each song.
Some of my favorites include the far out, weighty, and mysterious tracks like the dark “Hi Dive,” the toned down acoustic “Reborn Again,” and the straightforward indie rock feel of single “Life in Space” and “Sue Me.”
“Here I Lay” into “Wisdom Tooth” into “God Forbid” offers a satisfying three-track run to close the album, featuring dynamic, yet seamless transitions that the listener could easily mistake for one long, episodic song.
While I’m quick to say I’m excited for what the band does next, ‘The Duck’ should also be adequately celebrated as an excellent modern Colorado release, and its spaciousness should also serve as a reminder to avoid getting lost amongst the chaotic world.
