In a world where instant gratification is the norm, patience has become a rare commodity. But for Zoë Randell and Steve Hassett, who make up indie-folk duo Luluc (pronounced Loo-LUKE), letting things unfold in due time not only defines their career trajectory, it also works as a pretty good description of their approach to making music. Music that Sub Pop co-founder Jonathan Poneman describes as "bracing, subtle, tender and magnificent." So while it may seem like Randell and Hassett’s history is littered with all kinds of good luck—from their initial meeting to their relationship with The National’s Aaron Dessner to opening slots with artists like Lucinda Williams, Fleet Foxes, and José Gonzàlez; to their deal with Sub Pop; to grabbing the attention of Nick Drake’s producer—being in the right place at the right time isn’t just about fate. It’s about knowing when something feels right and having the confidence that people will respond when they’re ready. There’s no question that everything these Australians (who split their time between Melbourne and their adopted hometown of Brooklyn) have done in their lives has been leading up to this summer’s Passerby, their second album overall and first available worldwide. Passerby is a gorgeously crafted 10-track album full of beautiful, slow-burning melodies and delicate harmonies, which drip out of their mouths like honey. The attention to detail is unmistakable, and highlights like “Reverie On Norfolk Street” and “Early Night” are as haunting as they are hummable. Unadorned guitars and voices make up the bulk of the dreamy sound, though the power of the added instrumentation can’t be overstated, with well-placed piano, percussion, double bass, sax, trumpet, trombone, and more adding color to the cosmopolitan atmosphere. Band favorites like Simon and Garfunkel and Gillian Welch (and, of course, Nick Drake) can be felt throughout Passerby, while the poignant restraint aligns them well with labelmates Low. Co-produced by the band and Dessner, Passerby shows off all of Luluc’s best qualities, retaining the gentle beauty of the duo’s debut while adding textures built with a cadre of impressive players. It’s the trophy celebrating Luluc’s airtight case that good things—no, make that great things—really do come to those who wait. The wait is over. The world is ready to hear Luluc quiet and clear.
J**R
Hushed elegance.
Having gained notoriety from the two tracks that appeared on the recent, excellent Nick Drake tribute compilation, Way to Blue: The Songs of Nick Drake, Luluc offers its sophomore release Passerby, a full-length echo of the duo’s Drake takes. The duo of Zoe Randell (voice, guitars) and Steve Hassett (voice, guitars, bass, flute, mandocello, percussion, and keys), sets a near-ambient mood, augmented by thirteen guest musicians favoring classical string instruments on several tracks. Overall, the album’s hushed elegance envelops the listener in Randell’s quiet musings on life, love, and the pursuit of melancholy. Passerby is the sound of snow falling, a pen scratching out an overdue letter, an acoustic guitar playing softly in the next room, a soundtrack for those fleeting moments between dreams and daylight, or nightcap and nightlight.
J**A
A remarkable stand-out album.
Everyone I play this for says, "who is that?" Your first experience of these songs will probably be of remarkable peace and reflection. I've listened to them many times and haven't tired of them. The remarkable experience continues even now. Truly one of the best albums I've bought in a long time. My tastes: indie folk, indie rock, jazz, some pop, some electronic, some classical.
T**T
A New Favorite - Distinctive Lyrics
Songs that sound like nostalgic poems set to pensive melodies. They are lovely and contemplative without seeming excessively sweet.
J**.
Five Stars
Gorgeous voice and well thought out lyrics. A treat to listen to time and time again.
H**E
I was told to buy this album so I did and I am happy to report I received good advice
A very nice album but have coffee on hand as it might make you sleepy. NOTE: not recommended while driving.
B**N
Four Stars
:)
D**R
Buy it.
This album is pure beauty, totally addicting and perfect for a mellow Sunday morning.
D**A
Passerby by Luluc is one of the finest albums you can find out there
Passerby by Luluc is one of the finest albums you can find out there. The voices are extremely lyrical and makes you travel to own moments where something important happened. A must have.
