Swinging Stars

by Mapache

Overview

Friends since their high school days in the Los Angeles suburb of La Canada, Sam Blasucci and Clay Finch have kept up a long-term collaboration as Mapache, a breezy singer/songwriter duo steeped in a melange of earthy West Coast vibes. Swinging Stars is their fifth LP together and follows Blasucci's solo debut, which was released a few months prior. Recorded during a focused week at Stinson Beach's scenic Panoramic House studio, Swinging Stars is an intriguing entry in Mapache's catalog. More than any of their previous releases, it highlights the individual characteristics of each songwriter, relying on their natural chemistry to glue things together. The Spanish-sung "Sentir" sets a soft tone to start the album, which picks up with the standout "French Kiss," a nimble rocker of cascading Toussaint piano rolls and stinging Garcia guitar solos. As the record unfolds, the two friends continue to reveal more of their character with Blasucci playing the pop maestro to Finch's ambling cosmic cowboy. The latter's easygoing "What a Summer" is a joy to behold, casting its poetic Western spell ahead of the tandem-sung "Hey," which resembles fellow early pop enthusiasts the Cactus Blossoms. Although Mapache has always been identified by its core duo, they've consistently toured with a rhythm section, and drummer Steve Didelot earns his full-time induction into the band with a song contribution of his own on "Reflecting Everything," another highlight. The record draws its title from the charming tumbleweed lounge instrumental "Home Among the Swinging Stars," led by Finch's spectral bamboo flute. Mapache has always been about good, honest songwriting, and on Swinging Stars, the casual, organic arrangements they provide serve them well. Even amid the emerging identities of its two star players, it hangs together as a delightfully cohesive volume. It's the sound of old friends playing guitar and singing together in a good room, a vibe that never gets old. ~ Timothy Monger

Product Details

Release Date:	08/18/2023
Label:	Innovative Leisure
UPC:	0810874026293
Rank:	47596

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Mapache   Primary Artist

Technical Credits

Dan Horne   Group Member
Steve Didelot   Group Member
Nathaniel Russell   Artwork
Spencer Dunham   Group Member
Sam Blasucci   Group Member
Clay Finch   Group Member
Dave Rawlings   Group Member