Originally conceived as the soundtrack for a movie about monsters and zombies, Dead Man’s Bones is twisted and charming. The warped minds behind this project are two young actors, Ryan Gosling and Zach Shields. The movie never came together but the music created was too good to be cast aside.
Adding to the eerie feel of the album is the use of the Silver Lake Conservatory Children’s Choir. In fact, the best songs are those in which the choir is prominently featured. The sparse arrangements are very effective and add to the gothic theme of the album.
The compelling and odd “My Body’s A Zombie for You” sounds almost cheery in the young voices of children. With its jangly tambourine and simple piano riff, the song becomes something more than a love song. It becomes a sort of campfire sing-along. On “Pa Pa Power” Ryan and Zach find themselves inadvertently in the world of indie pop. This song is a gem; it’s so potent and beautiful. Acoustic bliss can be found on “Werewolf Heart,” in which Ryan and a female companion sing point/counter point style to each other about love and death. The album ends with “Flowers Grow out Of My Grave.” It’s a sweet doo-wop about love’s eternal reach. It starts out with a hushed poem and then explodes into a chorus filled with joy and laughter.
The songs which comprise this album are simple and contain magical haunting melodies. They tell stories of werewolves and death and love and make it all seem inviting. Their passion for the material and commitment to keeping it lighthearted and raw makes this album come to life. It’s in many ways one of the most organic albums I have heard in years. Too good to be missed and just weird enough to be great.
All rights reserved.