Local 913, Episode 35: Mariage Blanc
Formed in 2008, the Pittsburgh indie-rock quartet Mariage Blanc released their latest LP, No Autobiography, amidst great change in the band in terms of location and lineup, while still maintaining their smooth, steady sound. While the band is sporting a new drummer, Rich Woody Kawood, who you may recognize from his other drumming gig with the Pittsburgh power-pop band Triggers, Mariage Blanc are able to hone that already tight, slick, indie-rock style while adding a few new elements. This time around, Mariage Blanc pays tribute to late 60’s Laurel Canyon rock, like Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young and even a hint of Steely Dan. Also present on No Autobiography, is a strong influence from 90’s indie-pop bands like Travis and non-country sounding Whiskeytown. Last year saw the relocation of frontman, Josh Kretzmer from Pittsburgh to San Francisco, which often means the end of a band. However, it meant the opposite for Mariage Blanc: Kretzmer’s move sparked a re-dedication to the group and gave clarity on why they were making this music in the first place. Mariage Blanc realized that they could make music AND be in their thirties: the result is a refined, mature, yet emotional record from Kretzmer, Kawood, bassist Josh Dotson and guitarist/songwriter, Matt Ceraso. A close and educated listen to the album and you can tell that this music was painstakingly and lovingly worked on and is technically precise and complicated in each and every way.... Orrrr you can just throw the record on in the background and it’ll act as a soothing companion to your hectic workday. The song “Blue Eyes” instantly familiar melody and breezy harmonies is ready and set for your next coastal roadtrip mix. It’s kind of hard to believe that Kretzmer moved to California AFTER No Autobiography was recorded. For more on Mariage Blanc, check out their Facebook page.
