It was nearly four years in the making for Chris Bathgate’s new full-length Salt Year. Having had the chance to preview the album, I can safely say Bathgate has created a piece of work that shall be noted as one of Michigan’s finest for many years to come.

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Despite taking more than a few years to create and including several musical guest appearances, Salt year seems and feels incredibly concise. I was left with the impression that the whole project must have been produced in a shorter period of time than it actually was. Here is proof that Bathgate not only knows how to marry exceptional lyrical content with lush arrangements, but he knows how to assemble these songs into something greater. I am not sure I would be correct in calling this a concept album, however, each song works remarkably well with the next and there are many themes that reappear throughout.

Whether intentional or not, the mood of the album touches upon the difficulty in its conception, yet remains ever optimistic to reach its end. Salt Year, being released on Quite Scientific Records, sounds nothing short of a triumph.

Kalamazoo will finally be able to embrace his work when Bathgate performs at The Strutt, along side Hezekiah Jones and Samantha Crain, on Friday April 22^nd.

Show starts at 9PM

$5 cover.