Bitter, Bitter Weeks

Brian McTear may be best known as the producer behind such acts as Matt Pond PA, Burning Brides, and Swearing at Motorists, or perhaps for his work in Marinernine. Whatever the case may be, McTear has taken up the moniker Bitter Bitter Weeks to release his solo acoustic material. This self-titled album is comprised of 12 songs that are arranged and played live into one microphone with some help from Matt Pond and friends from Mazarin and Swisher. As with most acoustic music, the songs rise or fall based on McTear's lyrics, and they are quite stark and universal, but not in any cheap manner. Combined with distinctive vocals reminiscent of a cross between Robbie Hutchinson (of Ann Beretta and Foundation) and Jeremy Enigk, Bitter Bitter Weeks is an open book of McTear's life, struggles, interactions, and relationships. For the most part, with strong lyrics, uniquely appealing vocals, and simple acoustic guitar work, the songs here work quite well. Whether it be through pulling on heartstrings or instilling hope in one's soul, this is an appealing release. And while it's by no means the next big acoustic act, fans of the singer/songwriter genre might be pleasantly surprised by what they find with Bitter Bitter Weeks.