Olden Yolk by Olden Yolk
Olden Yolk is a New York-based group whose penchant for dystopian folk, abstract poeticism, and motorik rhythms have enveloped them in a sound uniquely of-the-moment yet simultaneously time-tested. The project is led by songwriters, vocalists, and multi- instrumentalists Shane Butler (Quilt) and Caity Shaffer, whose interlaced vocals are found guiding each composition on their enlivening self-titled debut. OY's first release was a split-record with Weyes Blood in 2014.
Their self-titled debut ruminates on questions surrounding love, doubt, and burgeoning unrest. Wrought with melancholy and halcyon joy, Butler and Shaffer’s lilting vocals play off one another through a devotional dialogue, taking form in haunting choral melodies and candid rock n' roll. These songs are ecstatic odes to the life of the city; to the subway platforms, kiosks, and monuments which enliven and encompass our collectivity, elevating into an urban-psychedelia.
On the album, Butler and Shaffer are joined by drummer Dan Drohan (Tei Shi, Uni Ika Ai) and guitarist Jesse DeFrancesco. The album was recorded at Gary’s Electric in NYC by Jarvis Taveniere (Woods) with co-production, electronics, and mixing by Jon Nellen (Ginla, Terrible Records). Other collaborators include John Andrews (Woods, Quilt, The Yawns) and violinist Jake Falby (Mutual Benefit, Julie Byrne).
Tracklist
| 1. | Verdant | 3:45 |
| 2. | Cut To The Quick | 4:02 |
| 3. | Gamblers On A Dime | 3:46 |
| 4. | Vital Sign | 3:30 |
| 5. | Aria | 0:48 |
| 6. | Common Ground | 4:22 |
| 7. | Hen's Teeth | 3:10 |
| 8. | Esprit de Corps | 3:53 |
| 9. | After Us | 2:59 |
| 10. | Takes One To Know One | 7:50 |
Credits
All songs written & recorded by Olden Yolk (ASCAP)
Olden Yolk is:
Shane Butler:
vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, fx, keys, bass, production
Caity Shaffer:
vocals, piano, keys, bass, percussion
Dan Drohan:
drums, percussion
Jesse Defrancesco:
electric guitar, keys
additional instrumentation by:
John Andrews:
piano & vocals (2, 4, 5, 7, 10)
Jake Falby:
violins & viola (3, 4, 7)
Jon Nellen:
tapes, synths, drum machine
"Aria" performed by John Andrews
Recorded at Gary's Electric NYC by Jarvis Taveniere, with assistance from Robert Aceto
Additional recording at Black Lodge NYC by Jon Nellen
Produced by Olden Yolk & Jon Nellen
Mixed by Jon Nellen
Mastered by Mikey Young
Album art:
Sculptures by Larry Robin
Cover photo by Paul Hogan
Back photo by Daniel Dorsa
Layout by Shane Butler
