David Lowery - The Palace Guards (eMusic Bonus Version) (2011)

David Lowery, known as the frontman for Camper Van Beethoven (since 1985) and Cracker, released his first solo album, The Palace Guards, in 2011. The album, recorded with a rotating cast of musicians, adopts a distinctive mood: in contrast to the humorous style of his bands, the solo work exhibits a decidedly more somber and contemplative worldview. Tracks range from a moody waltz about conflict ("I Sold the Arabs the Moon") to a crunchy rocker ("Baby, All Those Girls Meant Nothing to Me") and shambolic acoustic numbers (the title track). While the album bears some sonic resemblance to Cracker and CVB, its overall serious and clever tone is significant, suggesting it is a body of work Lowery could not have made within his usual bands, proving he can create mature yet smart music.

Tracklist:
1-1 David Lowery - Raise 'Em Up On Honey [4:28]
1-2 David Lowery - The Palace Guards [3:40]
1-3 David Lowery - Deep Oblivion [5:35]
1-4 David Lowery - Ah You Left Me [3:47]
1-5 David Lowery - Baby, All Those Girls Meant Nothing To Me [4:08]
1-6 David Lowery - I Sold The Arabs The Moon [4:04]
1-7 David Lowery - Marigold [5:30]
1-8 David Lowery - Big Life [4:26]
1-9 David Lowery - Submarine [3:48]
1-10 David Lowery - Cages [3:10]