Over 20 years since their last studio release, the Folk Implosion’s Walk Thru Me marks an unexpected new chapter in their unique journey. Initially conceived as a lo-fi side project with a name playfully mocking the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, the duo of Lou Barlow (Sebadoh/Dinosaur Jr.) and John Davis evolved from fuzzy, experimental recordings in the ’90s and early 2000s to major label deals and Top 40 success before going on hiatus in 2004.
Walk Thru Me remains true to the band’s ethos of transforming any idea into their distinctive, unconventional pop sound. Despite Barlow’s extensive songwriting output through Sebadoh, solo work, and other projects, his contributions here retain a familiar shape. The steady pacing and varied guitar tones of “My Little Lamb” showcase Barlow’s unique melodies, while the gritty distortion and driving drums of “The Fable and the Fact” echo early Sebadoh’s punk energy.
Davis’ contributions are stylistically more adventurous. His fascination with traditional Middle Eastern instruments introduces elements like oud and saz, adding a fresh layer to their sound. Tracks like “Bobblehead Doll” and “Water Torture,” both featuring Davis’ vocals, evoke the mellow alternative pop of the Lightning Seeds or Robyn Hitchcock, diverging from Barlow’s usual punk-influenced indie rock. These stylistic contrasts are key to the album’s success. The final track, “Moonlit Kind,” echoes the light dance rhythms and deep grooves of their 1995 hit “Natural One,” but with a more relaxed, ambient feel. Walk Thru Me sees the Folk Implosion exploring new, eclectic directions while staying true to their core, proving that, despite the long hiatus, they continue to innovate and surprise.
English