Oxbow, the enigmatic San Francisco quartet, returns with their eighth studio album, "Love's Holiday," a captivating exploration of noise rock, art rock, and avant-garde experimental sounds. Released on July 21, 2023, via Ipecac Recordings, this 40-minute journey is a testament to the band's enduring creativity and sonic adventurousness.
"Love's Holiday" opens with "Dead Ahead," setting the tone for the album's intense and immersive experience. The tracklist features collaborations with notable artists, including Lingua Ignota on "Lovely Murk," adding a layer of depth and intrigue to the album. Standout tracks like "1000 Hours" and "Million Dollar Weekend" showcase Oxbow's signature blend of raw energy and intricate composition, while "The Night the Room Started Burning" and "Gunwale" delve into more experimental territories.
The album's title track, "Love's Holiday," serves as a poignant centerpiece, highlighting Oxbow's ability to weave complex narratives and emotions into their music. With its haunting melodies and powerful instrumentation, "Love's Holiday" is a masterclass in experimental art and noise-rock, solidifying Oxbow's status as pioneers in the genre.
For fans of Oxbow's previous work, this album is a welcome return to their signature sound, while also offering fresh and innovative elements that keep their music evolving. "Love's Holiday" is a must-experience for anyone drawn to the raw, unfiltered energy of noise rock and the intricate, thought-provoking compositions of art rock.