Chicago-based duo wht.rbbt.obj continue to showcase their enveloping noir-rock sound on Oscar Bravo Juliett, the final chapter in their NATO Call Sign Trilogy. The husband-and-wife team culminate their three-part saga with a record that feels both intimate and explosive, reflecting on love, loss, and the beauty of chaos. Written and recorded as a conceptual closer to Whiskey Hotel Tango and Romeo Bravo Bravo Tango, the album captures a creative process steeped in tension and catharsis. Its dynamic range is striking, spanning from the ghostly folk atmosphere of “Fallout/Shelter” to the fiery, blues-soaked rock grit of “Monsters of Nothing.”
Opening track “Fallout/Shelter” weaves haunting vocals and subdued acoustics for an initially minimalistic folk charm, expanding into a mellow rock styling as the lyrical declarations of love continue. “They will never know the way I love you,” River Rabbitte’s chilling vocals let out, kicking off the album with heartfelt, atmospheric allure. The ensuing “Monsters of Nothing” channels a more rousing, bluesy charisma — remarking how “the stars have gone quiet” amidst shimmering guitar pulses and soulful vocal charisma. The album’s opening one-two punch is fantastic, exemplary of the band’s eclectic range — from haunting folk confessional to fervent rock pushes.
Another highlight arises in “Cash On Delivery,” which succeeds in a similarly charismatic rock range. “It feels so good, but it ain’t right,” the vocals alternate between debonair intrigue and sweltering passion, ruminating on love’s endurance into a “I want cash on delivery” confident hookiness. Album finale “I Get Stuck” also excels in its sharp songwriting, pairing high-flying guitar work with layered vocals that invigorate in their choir-like call-and-response prowess. Oscar Bravo Juliett is a resonating overall success from wht.rbbt.obj.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
