In the Shadow of Two Gunmen

The Forecast's sophomore full-length is an alt country-tinged album of tender ballads and hasty rockers where friendship, whiskey and tears all combine into one charming listen for the long, dusty drive home. It sounds a bit like what would result if Fifth Hour Hero's indie/punk sound leaned more consistently to the indie side of things, while traveling in a weary van full of Wilco, Ryan Adams, and Jets to Brazil tapes. In the Shadow of Two Gunmen is bittersweet and uplifting, comforting and rough-edged. The layering of three vocalists gives the songs an added depth that is highlighted by the engaging male/female interplay between lead singer/guitarist Dustin Addis and bassist Shannon Burns. The slight grit of his delivery coupled with her soaring soprano makes some songs feel like conversations — or arguments, in the case of lovers' quarrel "West Coast" — between the two. Sweet harmonies flow through gentle numbers like "You're My Needle" and the beautiful "Some Things Never Change," which possesses twangy guitars and aching keys that support heart-tugging sentiments of longing that would fit comfortably on a Lucero album. You can practically see Ben Nichols nodding in approval over an empty glass as Addis yearns "Just give me this/a slow dance/a last chance to tell you everything you need to hear/because the phone calls won't let me look you in the eyes." But the Midwestern quartet can rock as compellingly as they can reflect, exhibited in songs like the reckless "A Fist Fight for Our Fathers" and the classic rock instincts of "Every Gun Makes Its Own Tomb." This is the kind of album devoted to one's roots: The music is devoid of any pretense, and a humble sincerity shines through on every note. In the Shadow of Two Gunmen plays as reassuring and familiar as it is invigorating and fresh.