Perfectly spread over eleven lush tracks, An Anxious Host feels like a dream flight through television static; a set that picks up only a few stations, but squiggles and blurs the colors and lines. This is the result of its construction and composition revolving around the hazy humidity of Florida. With that in mind, one can hear the sunshine dancing behind the fuzzy curtain, its warmth still shining through despite the staticky barrier. In addition, this plays like a retro travelogue, one that promises relaxation, adventure, and more in this paradise. Mason works adeptly with layers and their interplay, with each track utilizing the most from each piece's range, making the album thick without being dense. There are almost two albums at play here, which helps add to the tv static, dreamy vibe. One is soft, pretty, and welcoming, giving out all the sunshine vibes that Florida can produce. The other, though, is crispy, hazy, and insectlike, portraying the more troublesome side that Florida now represents. This tale of two cities (er, two tales of one state?) captures a wonderful dynamic in a very fascinating way. The haziness makes the beauty seem older and far off, a product of a different time; conversely, the upfront layer of electronics plays with the modern eye, and reminds the listener that one cannot view the past without a modern lens. And while this is troubling and thought provoking, An Anxious Host does the gruntwork and presents it all on a nice, shiny slab of vinyl. 

 

Josh Mason's latest, An Anxious Host, conjures up memories of the past, utilizing these sonic reminders alongside modern electronic tones. This combination is what makes us what we are today and all of our current perceptions. Although the layers are simple enough on their own, their construction adds a level of complexity that adds to the overall message and feel of the album. Definitely deepening and improving with each successive listen, An Anxious Host is a delight for the senses...jump in here