Mac DeMarco - “Five Easy Hot Dogs” Album Review
For the first time ever, Mac DeMarco released an entirely instrumental album “Five Easy Hot Dogs.” It’s a weird album title, that’s for sure. What else do people expect from the Canadian singer-songwriter? Nothing less than strange.
DeMarco really said, “Let’s just be a producer on this one.” The indie alternative powerhouse is known for his acoustic and synth sound. Many people can distinct his music among other indie artists based on the fact that he primarily uses vintage Japanese synthesizers.
Another aspect of his music that stands out is he barely uses harsh percussion to keep a beat of a song. DeMarco uses an electronic drum machine along with tambourines, the body and bout of an acoustic guitar, and maracas. He even includes snaps here and there.
He effortlessly creates a peaceful and inviting sound.
While the story of this album is hard to put a finger on, it tells a 14-song-long story that is open to interpretation.
Variety reported that DeMarco went on an unplanned trip to see friends, family and fans. By the end of it, this record was finished. The titles of each song are named after the cities in which they were created in.
He said in the interview that he would not return home until he had an album. His process was driving until he was tired and the songs followed. Listeners can hear his journey throughout the record.
It would not be a bad idea if he sequeled this album with lyrics to each of the songs. DeMarco is known for releasing demos or B-sides corresponding with his most recent work.
Each song consists of the same instruments: acoustic guitar, drums from his piano and one unique instrument that stands out from the basics. He uses bells, horns, harsh synths and several rat-a-tat-tats.
While most if not all the tracks sounded the same, each had a different tale to tell. This is what makes DeMarco one of the best because he knows how to different melodies every single time while also being cohesive. He has never created an odd-ball tune.
The prince of indie rock has yet again created a tenacious album. Even though it's instrumental, he keeps the audience hooked to keep listening to the whole thing through and even save some songs to their playlist.
Just a guess, at one point, DeMarco goes through a hardship during his spontaneous music-making trip. The vibe of each song is either melancholy or giddy. There’s no in between. What is he going through? Is there a reason as to why he won’t address it straight on?
The world is going to have to wait for an album from him in order to get an answer. Will DeMarco continue publishing instrumental albums or will he return with a lyrical record? Many fans are probably rooting for a lyrical record.
Overall, “Five Easy Hot Dogs” is a fabulous indie instrumental album. No matter what kind of music a person is into, they will like something off the album.
It can be used during hot girl walks, studying, or just to have some background noise. The peaceful album is something many should have on their playlists.
Rating: 9/10
Reviewer’s Favorite Songs: “Vancouver,” “Gualala”
Reviewer’s Least Favorite Songs: N/A
Emily McGlynn is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email esm5378@psu.edu.
