The Key Studio Sessions: The Tressels

One one hand, Drexel Hill’s The Tressels are—loud and proud—the best bar band in Delaware County. On the other, their studied rock hooks and lyrical smarts will make you question why “bar band” is such an unfavorable distinction. Earlier this fall, I pondered that tension here on The Key when The Tressels announced their latest release, American Sunset; today, I’ll stick to the facts of the matter. The EP is the first in a planned three-part trilogy (continuing over the next year and some with American Midnight , then American Sunrise). Each installment is going to have its own sonic palette, from big bang roots-rock production to kitchen table tape-recorded lo-fi. Given the massive arrangements and shout-along choruses we heard when the band recorded its Key Studio Session this fall, the songs on Sunset were clearly designed with big-bang approach in mind, from the insanely catchy “Cold Blue Eyes” to the driving “Tell Me a Secret” and the simmering epic “Wolves.” Dig what you hear? Take in more of The Tressels’ survey of Americana at its release party this Friday, November 18, at The Grape Room.