Unlike lesser bands, John writes lyrics and then gets the band to create sublime music around them. This particular incarnation of Holopaw roars a little more, making the vocals all the sweeter. 10 songs here of singular, stunning lyricism that transcend the ghettoes of indie-rock, Americana and/or gay singer-songwriter. Would you believe the record was previously titled All Holes. No Glory? Holopaw musically plays with tensions: lulling strings are undercut by anxious guitars, lilting "la's" turn sinister and demanding. In "Little Stallion with a Glass Jaw" horn blasts announce a charge that is quickly clipped to a hush. The bounce of "P-a-l-o-m-i-n-e" stumbles towards chaos at the bridge only to be righted by a whimsical Bay City Rollers-esque chant. The last song on the record, "The Hobbyist and the Conductor (Avalanche)" begins with bright, carillon chimes that stand in stark contrast to the thunderous din that ends the song like a slack jawed finale to a fireworks display. Triumphant "la's" punch through the smoke and ash to have the final say.