Artist: Fair
Album: Disappearing World
Label: Tooth & Nail
Release Date: February 9th
Genre: Rock/Indie
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Rating: 
Having a world of experience pays dividends. Just ask Aaron Sprinkle; I’m sure he’d vouch for that. One listen to his new full-length Disappearing World pretty much explains it all in one fell swoop. The vastly known producer/musician/songwriter knows a thing or two about this business, along with the massive know-how to release thousands upon thousands of songs that just radiate sheer quality.
While it’s been nearly four years since Sprinkle’s last full-band effort with Fair (2006’s The Best Worse-Case Scenario), he certainly hasn’t missed a beat. His ability to take the best of his production skills to fill even the smallest gap is sensational. When combining his sage experience in production with superior songwriting, there is no misstep. The melodies simply convey a creativity not easily found among any other songwriters within this “scene”. While the music isn’t earth-shatteringly complex, it is certainly solid. No overuse of technicality meant to impress impressionable listeners, just to the point like a dart hitting a bulls eye.
Lyrically, Sprinkle eliminates any notion of uncertainty. He evokes a certain confidence that assures the listener of his conviction. Song themes range from faith (“Disappearing World”) to lost love (“One Last Time”), then adding a dose of self-awareness (“It’s Doubtful”). In “One Last Time”, he sings “Throw it away, I could be sadder I suppose, I should be shedding tears, and spouting prose, one last time. Not much to say, I wish I felt something more concrete, something where I could plant my feet, and try to breathe, one last time.” With the analysis that only a wise man could studiously observe, Sprinkle weaves poetic prowess through each track. On “The Worst of Your Wear”, Copeland’s Aaron Marsh lends his voice, making for a wonderful treat for the ears.
Nearly four years after a solid debut is long enough to change an artist’s methods, but no need for Fair. Since they’ve been around the block musically, playing a myriad of shows, putting out several records with hundreds of different projects, Fair is a collaboration of seasoned musicians making a dent in this contemporary rock scene the size of a meteor. As hyperbolic as this review has been, it can be safely said that there is a mighty contender for album of the year right around the corner from being released to the public.
Track Listing:
1. Disappearing World
2. Wayside
3. Walking In My Sleep
4. One Last Time
5. Take Some Risks
6. The Escape Artist
7. It’s Doubtful
8. The Worst of Your Wear
9. Great Divide
10. Anymore
Similar To: Copeland, Deas Vail, Number One Gun
Review by: Kyle L.
Great review, looking forward to hearing this.
One of the best albums of the year so far. The production on the record is simply perfect.