Thao & The Get Down Stay Down: A Man Alive [Album Review]

Thao & The Get Down Stay Down
A Man Alive
Ribbon Music [2016]

Fire Drill Album Review: Thao & The Get Down Stay Down have been putting out quirky indie rock since their 2008 debut We Brave Bee Stings and All. Bandleader Thao Nguyen continues to get stronger with her presence and on the band’s fourth long player, A Man Alive, you can hear her in full control. It is a refreshing breath of air as she steps out in front with an upbeat personality and matching ear catching voice. You can also instantly hear the impact of her snagging familiar project sidekick Merrill Garbus of tUnE-yArDs to produce the album. The beats, the moves and the grooves all blend together in unison, especially with standout songs like “Astonished Man” and “The Evening.” I really liked Thao’s last album We The Common [2013] but with repeat listens, A Man Alive stands tall and competes for title of best album in her catalog. Regardless of your ranking, if you have been a fan of Thao & The Get Down Stay Down, there is no reason not to dig this record. The band and sound here is as strong as ever plus A Man Alive has a fun side and timeless appeal that never lets down.

Thao & The Get Down Stay Down Website
Thao & The Get Down Stay Down Facebook
Ribbon Music

– Reviewed by Thomas Wilde

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Thomas Wilde

Thomas has a wide range of musical tastes as the NYC scene consistently broadens his pallet. Thomas is enjoying the opportunity to write at TFN and in his spare time is always looking for limited pressings of vinyl to add to his ever growing collection.