An Album a Day #2026-05
Lullaby for the Lost - Donny McCaslin
Notes
On paper, I should like this record. I'm a big fan of the tenor sax, as well as the sounds of Radiohead, Rage Against the Machine, and Nine Inch Nails, all of which are clear influences here. But for some reason, it just didn't work for me. To be fair, I listened while tired, so I plan to give it another listen with fresh ears.
My main objection to the record is space—namely the lack thereof. Every nook and cranny is filled with sound, giving the entire album an imposing and, dare I say, suffocating vibe. The only solace the listener gets is the brief pause between tracks. Only two songs stood out to me as worth repeating: "Stately," and the titular "Lullaby for the Lost."
There are plenty of interesting textures here, intriguing harmonies, and evocative melodies. But the recording is lifeless and the mix is muddy. Maybe a second listen after some rest will clear the water for me, but if not, I'm afraid I won't be revisiting this one any time soon.
Listen
What is "An Album a Day"?
Each day in 2026, I'm listening to an album that:
- I've never heard before
- Was released in the last six months (from the time of listening).
