Kotorino's full length release "Broken Land" is an intriguing travelogue of sound that manages to keep its feet on the ground. Like other parlour pop greats, say Piñataland or Starhead, Kotorino is rooted in americana mixed with tasty pop hooks, but the best moments on "Broken Land" are built on the foundation of the strong (and markedly varied) horn work.
To this mix of americana and horns Jeff Morris and crew mix in samplings of sound from around the globe.
Some of these elements are made manifest in the song's title: "Hawaii" focuses on South Seas island guitar, "Paris Underground" is not only sung in French but features prominent side-walk cafe accordion, "Double Tango" is, well, a tango.
There are less illustrated influences that season this album nicely.
"Oh My God" is all mild blues versus back-alley jazz, "Under the Moon" has a remarkably mellow reggae beat and tonal inflection that brings to mind the early work of Joe Jackson (if he was moving in slow motion).
The end result is a collection of songs that is characterized by careful composition and a powerful sense of restraint that makes the songs on "Broken Land" quietly compelling.
