Odd Marshall - Seconds (2026)

It is not often that an album sounds like the location in which it was recorded, but the minute I started listening to Seconds, Odd Marshall’s second album (his first since 2024’s successful Sand & Glue), I had the feeling that a desert was involved. So it was no surprise to find out that the album was recorded at Fireside Studios in Joshua Tree.

Studio owner Christopher Thorn unleashes Marshall’s passion and anger with Seconds. The album opens with the harsh and angry “Run.” It has a little Outlaw Country mixed with classic rock ‘n’ roll. It is pure energy and Marshall’s warning to the poor soul he is talking to is pure chilling and exciting. It is the gateway to the rest of the eight-track album. “Way Out” has a similar feel to it, gritty and rocking. The perfect combination. While the song “Hold Me Together” is an honest and emotional plea to help him get through whatever is happening. It has a late 1970s Neil Young feel to it, and once again, the country music makes its return.

This album is not ‘retro’ but it brings to mind those glorious albums of the 1970s that have endured over time, and they have endured because they are brilliant. And Seconds falls into that category. He is not jumping trends, or trying to be something he is not, he has simply written an honest, country-rock album that pulls out all stops and will stop you dead in your tracks when you place the needle on the record.

Seconds has a lot going for it. These are strong, well-crafted songs that touch your soul and allow you to listen and breathe along with the music. Kind of like being in the desert. Marshall has put together eight songs that are layered, passionate and forceful. It is a brilliant album, and the perfect title for a second album.