Cradle P. Lavender is a brand-new project from Milwaukee, WI. Trenton Houck writes all the songs for the band as well contributing on guitar, bass and vocals. Together with Micky Rosenquist on drums, the two make a kind of melancholy music that feels distinctively indie and lo-fi rock. Immediately when I pressed play on their debut EP Sunburn, Houck’s subdued vocals come wafting in and bring with it a hushed expectancy. He sings in a soft tone which I could barely make out, but though the music is slightly depressing, it has a way of growing on you.
Sunburn begins with the title track “Sunburn,” where some melancholy guitars enter the sound here. Houck’s vocals are very somber and are sung softly. This track was lo-fi and I was getting Death Cab for Cutie vibes right away. I loved the mellow undertones. It made for a relaxing listen. Toward the later half of the song, Houck sings with more emotion and I was getting emo vibes here. Some rumbling bass lines enter “Bodyguard.” The instrumentals slowly simmer in the backdrop making for an easy-going listening experience. Gradually, Houck’s vocals come in and I thought he really embraces his melancholy sound here.
On “Thank You,” Houck’s melodious and mellow vocals come through. His vocals are slightly distorted and this added to the simple but moving sound. More acoustic guitar enters on “Running Water.” Next, Houck’s emotional vocals light up the sounds. There was tons of mood and feeling to this track. I thought this was a moving way for the band to send us off.
Houck has made something truly interesting here. I was reminded of such emo bands like Death Cab for Cutie and a little of Bon Iver. The songs directly address the melancholy you might feel in life and it feels very real. If you’re in the mood for some sad songs, then this is just for you. Give this a spin today!
