The Western Civilization – “Stitches” [Song Review]

Austin, Texas-based indie rock outfit The Western Civilization introduces their new single, “Stitches,” taken from their upcoming full-length, Fractions of a Whole, set for release in September 2023.

The core of The Western Civilization, a collaborative project with a rotating cast of characters and collaborators, is Rachel Hansbro and Reggie O’Farrell, who met in 2002 while playing in separate bands. The musical chemistry between the two comprises two albums and multiple festival appearances, including the Vans Warped Tour, SXSW, and Halifax Pop Explosion.

On Fractions of A Whole, The Western Civilization is made up of Rachel Hansbro (vocals, guitar, piano) and Reggie O’Farrell (vocals, guitar, bass, synth, piano, production), with contributions from Angie Holliday (vocals, piano), John Boyd (drums), Adam Bencen (drums), and Bob Lane (trumpet). The entire album was recorded, produced, and mixed by O’Farrell, and mastered by Nick Landis at Nick Landis Mastering in Austin, Texas.

“Stitches” opens on scintillating, jangly-coloured guitars flowing into an infectious teeter-tottering rhythm topped by marvellous sing-song vocals, rubricated by soft harmonies, aglow with radiant timbres. Muddy, crunching percussion infuses the tune with an unrestricted cadence, giving the song roomy freedom.

The Western Civilization, photo by Jack Potts

As they harmonize, Hansbro and O’Farrell’s voices imbue the lyrics with organic authenticity, effortless and tangible, producing a luscious freshness.

Although “Stitches” travels on intricate layers of harmonics, in the end, the song comes across as unpretentious and utterly charming.

Run Time: 3:18
Release Date: March 31, 2023
Record Label: Independent