Really, if your humble Austin Music Minute maven may conveniently borrow some classic phrasing in reference to the newest work from David Garza: There is no dark side. It’s all dark.
I was hooked on Human Tattoo after the first listen. On the other hand, to simply label Garza’s latest album as darker than his Twang Twang Shock-A-Boom project would be far too dismissive. This is, quite simply, another direction for the talented songwriter, one that has him sending questions out to the universe: “Who are we? Where did we come from? Where are we going?” These are human observations, and the answers are not always pretty in a world driven by image and people’s perception. While one’s image can be altered on the surface, what is being done to change – to evolve – from within?
Produced by Adrian Quesada (Grupo Fantasma), and featuring some incredible cover art by fellow songwriter Amy Cook, Human Tattoo brews a mixture of funky folk, moody soul and lo-fi rock. And, for whatever it’s worth, the overall sound truly is enticingly, irresistibly dark.
To celebrate the new album’s release, Garza is playing an exclusive set of shows tonight and tomorrow night at the Cactus Cafe, 24th at Guadalupe in the Texas Union. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the music starts at 8:30 p.m. Don’t miss out. And whatever you do, pick up a copy of Human Tattoo. So very recommended.
