The Forgotten Gem: Arthur & Yu's "In Camera"

Remember the days when music was about the art, not the politics? Back in 2007, a little-known duo named Arthur & Yu released an album called "In Camera" that flew under the radar but deserves a second listen. Comprised of Seattle-based musicians Grant Olsen and Sonya Westcott, Arthur & Yu crafted a sound that was both nostalgic and fresh, blending folk and indie pop in a way that was reminiscent of the 60s and 70s. The album was recorded in their home studio, capturing a raw and authentic vibe that’s hard to find in today’s overproduced music scene. So why did this album not get the attention it deserved? Simple: it wasn't politically charged enough to make waves in a world obsessed with controversy.

"In Camera" is a collection of ten tracks that transport you to a different era, one where music was about melody and emotion rather than making a statement. The opening track, "Absurd Heroes Manifestos," sets the tone with its dreamy harmonies and jangly guitars. It's a song that invites you to sit back, relax, and forget about the chaos of the world for a few minutes. But in a time when everyone is looking for the next big political anthem, a song that simply makes you feel good doesn't stand a chance.

The album continues with "Come to View (Song for Neil Young)," a tribute to one of the greatest musicians of all time. It's a track that pays homage to the past while still feeling fresh and original. Arthur & Yu's ability to blend old and new is what makes "In Camera" such a unique listening experience. But again, in a world where everyone is trying to outdo each other with their political correctness, a song that celebrates music for music's sake is easily overlooked.

"Afterglow" is another standout track, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics. It's a song that makes you think, but not in the way that modern music often tries to force you to. Instead of shoving an agenda down your throat, Arthur & Yu invite you to reflect on your own life and experiences. It's a refreshing change of pace from the constant barrage of political messages that dominate today's music scene.

The album's title track, "In Camera," is a beautiful blend of acoustic guitar and ethereal vocals. It's a song that feels both intimate and expansive, drawing you in with its simplicity and depth. But in a world where everyone is trying to make a statement, a song that simply exists to be beautiful is often dismissed as irrelevant.

Arthur & Yu's "In Camera" is a reminder of a time when music was about the art, not the politics. It's an album that deserves to be revisited and appreciated for its timeless sound and genuine emotion. In a world where everyone is trying to outdo each other with their political correctness, "In Camera" stands out as a breath of fresh air. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best music is the kind that doesn't try to make a statement, but simply exists to be enjoyed. So, if you're tired of the constant barrage of political messages in today's music scene, give "In Camera" a listen. You might just find that it's exactly what you've been looking for.