Great Grandpa: A Journey Through Distance and Reunion

The Underrated Legacy of Great Grandpa

In an era where emotional, guitar-driven rock has the potential to catapult bands into stardom, Great Grandpa’s 2019 album, Four of Arrows, might have positioned them as instant favorites. Instead, the album experienced a more subdued reception, earning Great Grandpa a reputation as one of the most underrated acts within the emo-adjacent indie rock scene. Their artistry, however, garnered quiet admiration from peers, evidenced by Chicago’s Ratboys choosing Seattle’s Hall of Justice studio for their 2023 breakout album, The Window, inspired in part by Great Grandpa’s work.

Challenges and Changes: The Band’s Journey

Scattering in Uncertainty

The goodwill built from Four of Arrows could have paved the way for future success, but the band faced significant challenges in the wake of its release. Attempts to craft new material throughout 2020 proved fruitless, leading to a period of separation among members. Frontperson Al Menne relocated to Los Angeles to work on solo projects, while guitarist and primary songwriter Pat Goodwin and bassist Carrie Goodwin embraced family life in Denmark. This physical distance must have weighed heavily on a band known for their tight-knit camaraderie, often depicted in their promotional photos where they seem to cling to one another, as if to shield against the world.

Comparisons and Connections

Great Grandpa’s sound often draws parallels to Big Thief, not only for their shared influences of country, grunge, and cosmic sounds but also for their notable closeness as a band. The connection they share seems almost telepathic, enhancing the depth of their music.

Patience, Moonbeam: A Reunion Album

A Reflection on Change

With the release of Patience, Moonbeam, fans can sense the band’s attempt to navigate the complexities of their time apart. The opening track, “Task,” serves as a poignant reflection on their reunion, capturing the initial awkwardness of reconnecting after significant life changes. Lines like “Saw you at a party, we called you by your new name/You had changed, but the heart of you was still the same” underscore the themes of transformation and enduring connection.

Vocal Evolution and Musical Dynamics

Throughout the album, Menne experiments with their vocal delivery, oscillating between raw emotion and a guarded approach. Sometimes their voice merges with those of their bandmates, creating a rich tapestry of sound, while at other times, it is layered with electronics, showcasing a newfound complexity. The result is a sound that remains impactful, even if it is expressed with more restraint.

Opulence and Emotion in Music

A Dramatic Soundscape

One hallmark of Great Grandpa’s artistry is their exceptional sense of drama. Patience, Moonbeam is rich with orchestral arrangements and grandiosity, evoking the spirit of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness through a lens of indie dramedy. The album is filled with dynamic moments that elevate its emotional resonance, featuring knockout melodies and powerful climaxes.

Standout Tracks and Emotional Highs

Tracks like “Junior” deliver euphoric singalongs, while “Doom” bursts forth from its meticulously built tension with the album’s heaviest riff and an infectious bridge, exclaiming, “It’s funny how I need you, damn.” This juxtaposition of tenderness and intensity may evoke a desire to punch a pillow in catharsis, illustrating the band’s ability to blend emotion with raw energy.

Conclusion

Great Grandpa’s journey from the muted reception of Four of Arrows to the rich, introspective landscapes of Patience, Moonbeam reflects a band grappling with distance and change. Their music continues to resonate, offering a blend of emotional depth and sonic complexity that cements their place within the indie rock landscape. As they embrace their legacy and forge ahead, the quiet admiration from their peers may one day translate into the recognition they deserve.

FAQs

What genre does Great Grandpa belong to?

Great Grandpa is often associated with emo-adjacent indie rock, characterized by emotional lyrics and guitar-driven melodies.

What is the theme of the album Patience, Moonbeam?

The album explores themes of change, reconnection, and the complexities of relationships after a period of separation.

How does Great Grandpa’s music compare to other bands?

Great Grandpa’s sound is frequently compared to bands like Big Thief due to their shared influences and the strong sense of unity within the group.

What notable tracks are on Patience, Moonbeam?

Standout tracks from the album include “Task,” “Junior,” and “Doom,” each showcasing the band’s emotional range and musical complexity.

Where was Patience, Moonbeam recorded?

The album was recorded at Hall of Justice in Seattle, a studio previously used by the band for their earlier work.