Now It’s Overhead
Fall Back Open

Saddle Creek Records
Released:  March 9, 2004

Now It’s Overhead’s Fall Back Open is yet another excellent release from renowned Omaha label Saddle Creek.  From start to finish this record will have you mesmerized.

Now It’s Overhead is comprised mainly of Andy LeMaster with the help of Clay Leverett, Orenda Fink, and Maria Taylor.   You might be thinking that those names look a little familiar.  That’s probably because none of the band members seem capable of focusing on one project.  While not with NIO, front man LeMaster tours with bands like Bright Eyes.  Leverett plays with a plethora of bands including Lona and Fink and Taylor are with fellow Saddle Creek band Azure Ray.

This album perfectly combines dark, lyrically unsettling moments with a melodic and at times catchy sound that will have you humming along.  While the album verges on being over-produced, the insecurity of LeMaster’s voice keeps it from being excessively polished. 

“The Decision Made Itself” is by far my favorite track on the album and with each listen has become one of my top favorite songs.  The sound of an acoustic guitar heads this oddly comforting song of lost time and missed opportunities.

You may recognize some of the other backing vocalists on this album.  Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes fame makes a guest appearance in the title track, adding the perfect touch to this song.  Another song that features guest vocals is “Antidote.”  REM’s Michael Stipe enhances the chorus, adding a needed level of depth.

If you are still unsure if this album is for you, then take a quick look at your CD collection.  Do you own any Bright Eyes, Azure Ray, Rilo Kiley, or any Saddle Creek artist?  If you do, then Now It’s Overhead is for you.  And even if you don’t, still give it a try.  Fall Back Open is unique, haunting, complex, and utterly beautiful.  This is one of the most satisfying albums I’ve heard this year and it’s sure to add to anyone’s music collection.

XROXX Album Rating:  XXXX (4 X's out of a possible 5 X’s)

Kath Kenny
writer@XROXX.com