The Garden's latest release, 'Bootleg', is a captivating venture into the realm of lo-fi magic. This album, as the band describes it, is a compilation of songs written and recorded over time without a specific intent or goal. The result is a collection of 14 tracks, each with its own unique meaning or story, much like a chapter book of different narratives. The Shears siblings, known for their uncategorizable musical style, have once again crafted something that is both odd and jarring, yet undeniably captivating. The single '5 Mile Ponytail' is a prime example of this, with its lack of general purpose or direction, fitting perfectly with the album's mantra-less approach. The music video, directed by Will Sipos, further emphasizes this theme, featuring a roadside performance and the band 'riding in a vintage whip with the 5 mile ponytail'. This release follows their previous works, 'HORSESHIT ON ROUTE 66' and the EP 'Six Desperate Ballads', showcasing the band's consistent evolution and experimentation. The tracklist for 'Bootleg' is a diverse one, with songs like 'Ugly', 'Pin Drop', and 'White Cadillac', each contributing to the album's unique character. The Garden's ability to create such a cohesive and captivating body of work, despite the apparent randomness of its creation, is a testament to their artistic prowess. This album is a must-listen for fans of lo-fi and experimental music, offering a fresh and intriguing perspective on the genre.
