But You've Always Been the Caretaker

iTunes Review

Silent League mastermind Justin Russo gives his ambitions free reign on this sprawling set. Over the course of 90-plus minutes, he leads his orchestral combo through a series of interrelated pieces blending British progressive rock, classic film score and techno-pop elements. The accompanying lyrics have an almost surreal sense of detail, exposing glimpses of decaying landscapes (“There Is a Caretaker In the Woods,” ”Resignation Studies”) and wounded romantics (“I Go,” “Chapter Meeting”). Central to this song-cycle is “Here’s a Star,” a melodically gorgeous meditation on fame offered in four radically different versions. Thick horns, swooning steel guitars, twinkling synthesizers and ghostly choirs give the arrangements a sumptuous, slightly frothy feel. At the heart of …Caretaker is a wistful sort of alienation, lent added poignancy by Russo’s boyish, bruise-tender singing.