Rating: 
What does one do when the project they’ve devote their time to dissolves? For Doug Tuttle, there was only one option: forge ahead. His self-titled effort is his first effort since MMOSS broke-up, but in all honesty, it’s ultimately more rewarding than his previous work; he seems to have found his own way while writing these songs.
“With Us Soon” takes listeners back a few decades with a sun-coated psychedelia, accented by an instrumental buzz that works its way in and out of the track. But, most importantly, the underlying current is one of a pop-centric songwriter; this attitude will unfold further as your listen continues. While the following tune “Forget the Days” does wear some of the influences of Doug Tuttle‘s past, including the throbbing bass work, it’s the way his voice drifts carefully over every inch of the song, lightly bouncing along and giving a warmth to the listener’s ear.
Tuttle doesn’t shy away from his past too often, with most songs including the dreaded psych nod, but even when the song indulges a great deal, there’s clearly something working beneath. “Turn This Love” is filled with a noodling guitar that perhaps goes on solo for too long, but the chorus alone warrant many repeated listens. It’s a dreamy vocal that you’d easily find haunting any music head’s secret play list. Of course, those indulgences do go too far on occasion, like in the following track, “Where Your Plant Love Is…Where It Grows.” What can I say? I’m a vocals guy, and it just doesn’t do it for me here.
For my tastes, Doug Tuttle does succeed when he lets his inner songwriter shine, making things simpler and more focused. My favorite track is “I Will Leave,” which comes near the end of the effort. There’s a simple sincerity to the track, with just a hint of California jangle seeping into the guitar. The vocal is steady, showing just what a voice Doug’s got, and possibly hinting at the future. There are hints at his songwriting prowess throughout, especially with a song like “Better Day” wrapping things up, so the record really ends on a high-note, closing with a wonderful 1-2 punch.
I imagine it’s hard to leave your past behind, and it’s clear that Doug Tuttle just isn’t there, and maybe he doesn’t need to leave it all behind. He takes all the bits and pieces of his previous work while weaving a narrative of his own. It’s a self-titled record that’s strong from start to finish, and far more than just a record wearing psychedelic influences. You’ll love the melodies and the craftsmanship, and you might find that Doug Tuttle is the only thing you need right now.
I really love the work of Trouble in Mind Records. What I love the most is the diversity of the label, tossing out rockers like Omni or Rays, then bringing us something softer like this new Doug Tuttle. From the moment you press play, you’re immersed in this wonderful world filled with strings and horn accompaniment. The approach of this song fits perfectly with the album art of Peace Potato, as you can see Tuttle walking into the stars…you should feel as if you’re doing the same when this number reaches your ears. This is a far cry from his work in MMOSS, so look for the new album on May 5th.
