Search - National Trust :: Dekkagar

You don't really need to know that there are 70 tracks (more than half "mouth sounds") on Dekkagar's delightful opener, "Making Love (In the Natural Light)," to appreciate its Superfly-like charms. Chicago is the home of Curtis Mayfield Drive after all, and these Renaissance men--producer-musicians Brian Deck (Modest Mouse, Califone) and Neil Rosario (Dolemite)--have strayed so far from Chi-town's jagged indie-rock traditions that the only way in which they honor their pale, testosterone-addled forefathers is by creating their own trajectory (with Urge Overkill's cover of Hot Chocolate's "Emma" being the only viable reference point). It's a smooth line, inspired by strands of soul from years past: to these ears, the likes of the Brothers Johnson's "Strawberry Letter 23" and, on "See No Evil," the melody of Stories' "Brother Louie." Breathy, sexy vocals, complemented by airy, moody arrangements, funky drumming, keyboards galore, and a nostalgic feel-good vibe render all the songs effortlessly memorable. So regardless of how much the National Trust are winking their way through this genre exercise, there's an irresistible sensuality in the Beach Boys-ish harmonies of "First Time That" and the Big Star-like, roots-rock feel on "So Anna." Each hyper-produced track will wash over you like sunshine and warm wind, making Dekkagar a sleek and shiny sleeper among the trainspotting indie-rock jet set. --Cyndi Elliott