Following the eclectic travelog of 2016's Highway Songs, which ranged from biker metal and grunge to glitchy, flanged-out electronic experiments,
Papa M's fourth proper album is a much more stripped-down, relaxed affair. It would almost have to be, considering everything David Pajo had been through since he resumed making music after a lengthy hiatus. While Highway Songs felt meticulously labored over yet cathartic, A Broke Moon Rises seems much more casual, and reflective of a clearer state of mind. The songs generally consist of repetitive acoustic guitar patterns which slowly build and stretch out, joined occasionally by soft, unobtrusive drumming. Opener "The Upright Path" ends abruptly just as it seems like it's going to reach a higher plateau. "A Lighthouse Reverie," however, is much more intricate, beginning with a complex array of quickly plucked guitars, then breaking down into a much calmer passage before settling into a more straightforward groove. "Shimmer" is perhaps the most detailed composition on the album, as well as the most intimate recording. Pajo's feverish strumming goes through subtle changes and gradually becomes grander and more enlightened; however, it sounds quite loose, and falls apart right at the end. The album ends with Pajo's version of
Arvo Pärt's composition "Spiegel im Spiegel," an extremely sparse yet highly soothing series of evenly paced notes, which Pajo plays for 13 minutes. To some ears, this album might sound like demos or unfinished sketches, but its simplicity seems to be Pajo's way of saying that sometimes it's best to appreciate things for what they are, and just be happy you're alive. He seems to be at peace, and that carries a great amount of significance. ~ Paul Simpson