Album Review: Andy Salge ‘Shuffle’

An exciting new release hit the Indianapolis music scene last month in the form of Andy Salge’s solo debut Shuffle. The album marks the first official release from Nick Vote’s Great Tasting Studios. Vote doubled as studio instrumentalist for many of Shuffle’s seven tracks. Salge’s effort marks a significant change of course from his work as bassist with Blue Moon Revue (who will drop its own release, produced by Alan Johnson of Static Shack Studios, sometime this summer).

Many of the album’s melodies are built around synth-heavy beats and heavy bass tracks. This marks a first for Salge as the synthesizer is an instrument that rarely sees the light of day on his BMR work. Salge’s strong songwriting is the one carry over from both projects. He keeps the structures simple here, shorter songs laden with addictive hooks—lyrically and instrumentally.

Any of you readers have shitty jobs? Next time you’re rolling out of work at 5 o’clock, roll down your windows, spark a cigarette, turn your speakers up and blast “Call it a Day.” Tell me this track is not as satisfying as that first beer on the couch after a long day. Fair waning, road rage may shortly ensue—but you will enjoy it.

“It’s On” is an addictive track that will remain engrained in your psyche for weeks on end. “Find a Way” falls in line as another catchy, danceable track. The rest of the album can be a little scatter-brained; Shuffle proves an apt title as the songs bounce through varying themes and musical styles. I tend to think of this as a success rather than a failure.

Shuffle, more than anything else, should be viewed as an experiment for Salge. This was not a calculated, year-in-the-making release. That will come in the form of BMR’s release this summer. However, I am excited that he has opened the door to new possibilities as a musician. As previously stated, the songwriting here is solid and that ain’t going to change. It will be interesting to see what shape that writing takes on as Salge grows more comfortable behind the keyboard and synthesizer.

Other good tunes from Shuffle: “Song for Aaron” & “I Suppose”

Roll up to Salge’s new smoke-infused single: “Treat Yourself”

Stream Andy Salge’s new album Shuffle:
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