Versatility is almost synonymous with the name W.C. Beck, and because of the numerous skills and connections up his sleeve, traversing from one genre to another is almost as easy as breathing for this Brooklyn-based artist. Now, W.C. Beck drops yet another collection of masterpieces for the audience to enjoy, “Facecomber,” a 10-track collection that showcases the top-notch quality musicality of this artist carried by his signature garage rock grit accentuated with his original acoustic sound.
W.C. Beck is a jack-of-all-trades master of everything. He is known for his versatility as someone who’s an underground mainstay who started his career in Kansas, but he’s also got his long stints in different areas, like Portland and Paris. As a session musician and multi-instrumentalist, his skills have been recognized by many, having played in bands including Bobby Bare, Jr. Quiet Life, and Blue Giant; and he’s also found himself touring as a support for major acts like The Dandy Warhols, The Decemberists, Michael Hurley, and many more. Clearly, music has been the center of Beck’s life, and this can also be cemented by the fact that he has been featured in over 50 released albums, including works of Pigeons, Vikesh Kapoor, and Horsefeathers, including 10 of his own albums. That’s some big discography right there!
From the beginning until the end of this album, one thing is sure: “Facecomber” is an emotionally packed release. It started with a gentle instrumentation of the track “A Letter from a Friend,” a song that felt like a warm embrace with Beck’s conversational singing that carries this personal message through clean acoustic guitar and clear vocals by Beck. Following strongly is the track “The River,” which is a personal favorite because it gives off the vibe from the famous song Hey There, Delilah. Beck’s skill in the instrument has shined through perfectly on this track, as he managed to perfectly combine the mellow and nice-sounding acoustics with a touch of subtle drums in the background, making a steady and nice-sounding track for the listeners to enjoy.
The title track “Facecomber” continues the same vibe from the previous track. Now, with its livelier and more upbeat tempo, along with the track “Turn to Fall,” Beck managed to play between the balance of chill and calm using the guitar as the center instrument for this track, adding a much livelier edge to the song through its impressive lyrics and composition. “Hummingbird,” “Train,” “Night Morning Midday,” “Cabin of Time,” and “Crystal Creek” are also tracks that are featured on this release, so be sure to enjoy and check these all out!
With “To Have It All,” Beck made a slight change to the tone of this piece, making it sound more electronic because of its production. This track is on a much gritty side, reminding me of the garage rock influences of this artist, and it is the kind of piece that will make you bop your head while listening to its meaningful lyrics that are both uplifting and comforting.
With “Facecomber,” W.C. Beck has reestablished his position as a skilled musician who carries his heart and soul through each note he produces. Using his strong foundation and character in his musicality, he has managed to compile and create a whole collection that is relatable, great-sounding, intriguing, and at the same time cohesive in nature. This album is solid proof of versatility, that W.C. Beck is someone to look up to when seeking music that is both relatable, comforting and at the same time authentic with human experience and emotions. So, take time to check “Facecomber” by W.C. Beck! A great music addition to upgrade all your playlists! Follow W.C. Beck on his social media accounts and stay updated with all his gigs and releases! Stream “Facecomber” by W.C. Beck now!
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About the Author
Tine Quirino, also known as Kristine, is a writer (frustrated one), a dreamer (serial sleeper), an INFJ (also INTP/J), a (professional) fangirl, and a good listener (‘literally and figuratively,’ she states).
She is just here, lurking somewhere, enjoying all your music. Music of any kind is still music, after all.
