I don’t often review albums these days, because, no time. But I do review the videos. So, imagine the level of ecstatic delight I experienced when Little Barrie’s publicist hipped me to the band’s latest viddy for a heavily-steeped-in-cool song called “Bonneville Ride.” Oh my, I do love this video.
Shot on Super 8 film so that it resembles a home movie from my childhood, “Bonneville Ride” is constructed visually around original footage of Little Barrie bassist Lewis Wharton’s father, also named Lewis, racing grasstrack motorbikes in the early – mid 1970′s. (Lewis senior is the gentleman hanging off the sidecar of number 69). Watching this clip feels like you are dreaming, or watching someone else’s dream. And I suspect it does not get much better than that. There are also a few clips of the band performing — and they are so good live. Aurally, the song is confident enough to let Wharton’s slinky bass line take the lead for a sweet ride that’s more akin to a mood-inducing flashback, or a slice of life, than a mere pop tune. In a word: Sublime.
“Bonneville Ride” comes from Little Barrie’s fourth album Shadow, which was released this past May on Tummy Touch Records. Like all of their albums, it is excellent listening. Enjoy!