Thin Black Duke

Oxbow, the enigmatic American band known for their genre-defying sound, returns with "Thin Black Duke," their seventh studio album and their first in a decade. Released on May 19, 2017, via Hydra Head Records, this 38-minute journey through noise rock, art rock, avant-garde, and experimental territories is a testament to the band's enduring creativity and refusal to be pigeonholed.

"Thin Black Duke" is a raw, unfiltered exploration of the human condition, channeling primal urges through a complex musical framework. The album opens with "Cold & Well-Lit Place," setting the tone for the intense, introspective journey that follows. Eugene Robinson's distinctive vocals, often barely discernible, weave in and out of the music, adding an extra layer of intrigue.

The album's standout track, "Ecce Homo," features a sumptuous piano-driven passage that harkens back to the band's earlier work, while also pushing their sound into new territory. Other highlights include the haunting "A Gentleman's Gentleman" and the intense, driving "The Upper."

Throughout "Thin Black Duke," Oxbow's signature sound is evident, yet the album feels fresh and unexpected. It's a bold statement from a band that has always marched to the beat of their own drum. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Oxbow's unique brand of experimental rock, "Thin Black Duke" is an album that demands to be heard.