Denim Dan returns with their ninth studio album, Denim Dan’s Circe, an evocative blend of folk-rock storytelling inspired by mythological themes and contemporary emotions. Clocking in at just over 48 minutes, the album takes listeners on a journey through longing, resilience, and transformation, all anchored by the titular goddess Circe from Homer’s Odyssey. The band, known for their heartfelt lyrics and intricate instrumentals, delivers yet another masterful collection that showcases their ability to innovate while staying rooted in their signature sound. Following their “Denim Dan’s 25th Anniversary (1999-2024)” release earlier this year, “Denim Dan’s Circe” demonstrates the band’s creative momentum and ability to innovate while staying true to their roots.
The album opens with “Sometimes (The River Will Overflow),” an indie-folk anthem blending dark country and modern pop influences. Its lyrics, addressing mental health and perseverance, set the introspective tone for the project. The second track, “We’ll Go On,” shifts the pace with rhythmic guitar chords and a harmonious, chant-like chorus. A poignant reflection on life after loss, this song resonates deeply, particularly with its electrifying guitar solo—a standout moment on the record.
Tracks like “A Minute to Midnight” and “Take My Soul” highlight the band’s versatility, with the former featuring prominent keys and the latter stripping things back into a soulful folk ballad. “Doorway’s” brings an ’80s-inspired energy with rhythmic lyrics and a powerful drumline, adding another dynamic layer to the album.
The centerpiece of the album, “Circe’s Song (Save Me),” captures the mythological essence that inspired the record. With haunting flute melodies, layered keys, and a contemporary reinterpretation of Odysseus’s yearning, this eight-minute epic becomes a deeply emotional experience. The refrain, “Save me,” lingers long after the track ends, cementing its place as the emotional heart of the album.
Other highlights include “Sweet Saroya,” a tender love song with a folk-pop twist, and “Excuse Me For Crying,” which bravely tackles themes of emotional vulnerability and the strength found in embracing one’s feelings. The penultimate track, “Embrace The Day,” is a burst of optimism, urging listeners to seize life with renewed vigor, while the closer, “Running Down The Time Line,” serves as a reflective finale, showcasing the band’s instrumental prowess.
Denim Dan’s Circe is a testament to the band’s storytelling mastery and their ability to weave mythological and modern themes into an accessible and emotionally rich folk-rock tapestry. From the haunting plea of “Circe’s Song (Save Me)” to the uplifting hope of “Embrace the Day,” the album mirrors a hero’s journey, complete with peaks, valleys, and moments of self-discovery.
This latest offering from Denim Dan not only reaffirms their legacy in the folk-rock scene but also paves the way for new sonic and lyrical horizons. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, Denim Dan’s Circe invites you to lose yourself in its lush melodies and thought-provoking narratives.
