I don't know if you can't really call one man a band, but when you are as talented as Chris Walla you can get pretty close. Best know as the guitarist for Death Cab for Cutie, Chris Walla is a man of many tricks. In addition to being a talented musician, Walla is also a noteworthy producer, having produced for such bands as The Decemberists, Hot Hot Heat, Nada Surf, and other similarly independent minded bands (including his current band Death Cab for Cutie). While Walla has written and released many songs under the name Martin Youth Auxiliary, none of them were given the studio treatment that Field Manual, Walla's first album released under his own name, was given.On Field Manual Walla really flexes his musical muscles, he wrote, played (except for the drums on most of the tracks), sang, and even recorded and mixed several of the songs.
Field Manual has a good mix of upbeat and laid back songs. It is definitely a good album to listen to when you want to relax, but it is a great album anytime. Walla's unique voice can be very soothing and almost haunting at times, which definitely makes for an interesting listen. You can check out more of the album by checking out the Field Manual e-card. There you can listen to some of the tracks from the album, see some of the art work (photos taken by Walla), and even download "Sing Again."
Favorite Tracks:
-Geometry &c
-Sing Again
-Archer v. Light
