By Scott Roos
Our grade: B-
Chesterfield’s Infinite Expanse and Raccoon is a captivating mix of indie rock, jam-band vibes, southern blues, and coutnry all brought together by the Saskatoon-based group’s multi-talented members. The album features Kasia Thorlakson (lead guitar, lead vocals, percussion, bass, trumpet), Cordell Anderson (drums, lead vocals, percussion, guitar, bass), Justin Braun (lead guitar, lead vocals, percussion), Eric Bubnick (bass, baritone saxophone, drums, vocals), and Brecken Gillespie (pianos, organs, synthesizers, vocals, bass, percussion). Each member brings something special to the table, and the record shines brightest when they embrace a blend of retro influences, notably the southern rock stylings of The Allman Brothers and the indie pop vibes of Yukon Blonde. It should be noted that three vocalists are featured on this album that add diversity and nuance to the overall vibe.
Cordell Anderson delivers his best performance on “Rubber Ball”, a track that stands out for its cool, laid-back vibe and impressive guitar work. The song opens with a smooth guitar lick reminiscent of jam bands like The Grateful Dead, creating an easygoing atmosphere. Cordell’s vocals, paired with harmonized scat singing, add a fun, effortless quality to the track. The dual guitar mix that has each guitarist panned extreme left and right adds depth, and the overall sound has a retro feel that recalls the Allman Brothers' harmonious guitar work. This track exemplifies Cordell’s strength as a vocalist and the band's ability to capture a relaxed, yet intricate, sound.
Braun’s strongest contribution, “Easy Rollin’”. This track channels the swagger of The Rolling Stones with its hard-driving rhythm and gritty vocals. The mid-tempo rock groove provides a perfect backdrop for Justin’s commanding delivery, and the guitar solo is a highlight, adding a raw energy to the track. The blend of indie pop sensibilities and classic rock influences creates a dynamic mix, making “Easy Rollin’” one of the album’s most engaging moments.
Finally, “Fly a Kite” stands asThorlakson’s best vocal work on the album. With its psychedelic intro and the use of vocal effects, the track offers a dreamlike atmosphere that allows Kasia’s aloof vocal style to take on more emotion and depth. The song's emotional resonance sets it apart, with its lush layers and a sense of intimacy that is harder to spot on Kasia’s other performances throughout Infinite Expanse and Racoon. The track captures a more connected and evocative side of her voice, making it the standout moment of the album for her.
Throughout Infinite Expanse and Raccoon, Chesterfield successfully blends a range of influences, from the indie rock sound of Yukon Blonde to the southern rock roots of The Allman Brothers. Songs like “OOO-EEE” and “Citrus Fruit House” embrace the indie pop sensibility, while others like “Watch for the Maniac” and “Gasoline Rainbows” bring in southern rock and bluesy elements, further enhanced by Eric Bubnick’s baritone saxophone and Brecken Gillespie’s keyboard work. This mix of influences creates a varied listening experience that keeps things interesting, even when the album lacks full cohesion in places due to some of the extremes in sonic variance.
In the end, Infinite Expanse and Raccoon is a good listen, with standout moments from each band’s three vocalists. Anderson’s “Rubber Ball”, Braun’s “Easy Rollin’”, and Thorlakson’s “Fly a Kite” showcase the band’s range, highlighting their ability to blend classic rock, indie pop, and jam-band elements into a unique sound. The album offers a glimpse of the band's potential, leaving listeners excited for what comes next.
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