It is easy to place an unwarranted amount of importance on the titles of albums and songs for the obvious fact that it is a quick way for an artist to relate a theme or possible inspiration to a listener in an instrumental setting. Drew Sullivan likely chose “The Slow and Steady Winter" to illustrate the extended season in his home state of Washington, or also as a possibly quirky homage to the Nashville based The Slow and Steady Winner. Regardless of intent, Slow Dancing Society continue the ambiance started in their stellar debut The Sounds of Lights When Dim.

The album begins with fifteen-minutes of droning minimalism entitled “The Early Stages of Decline,” which, in judging by the similarity in sound, could be another titular reference to Stars of the Lid’s latest release, And Their Refinement Of the Decline. On The Sounds of Lights When Dim, Sullivan was able to layer textures in a delicate and thought provoking way, creating a unique yet blurry picture of himself as an artist and musician. Here SDS appears to be lost in a snow covered field, plodding his way aimlessly in search of his own sound. The SOTL reminiscent tonal shifts in the first half of the album quickly give way to the Hammock influenced second half in one swooping guitar riff on “The Time We Spent.” While it is refreshing to hear Sullivan branching into a more melodic caveat in ambiance, it at times seems forced and SDS is at its best in the medium between complete minimalism and delayed guitar melody. This occurs on the sixth track, “Never Ending,” where interspersed guitars, piano, and lap guitar quietly bring melody in and out of pulsing chords. 

The Slow and Steady Winter, despite it’s references to other artists in both title and sound, is still a notable accomplishment. In a genre convoluted with artists, it is difficult to make a name for oneself and with just two albums Sullivan has done just that.

-Thomas Lloyd