At times experimental and psychedelic, while at others upbeat and driving, Ian Cat‘s new album East Coast New England Boy, is truly a journey that must be experienced in its entirety. At its core, the album is a singer/songwriter showcase, exhibiting Cat’s lyrical prowess, ranging from somber to exaltant. However, he doesn’t stop there, adding shoegaze-y guitar tones and appropriately sporadic percussion to form an impressive soundscape. Check out Ian Cat & The Crimsons at The Plough and Stars with The Rupert Selection on 1/12. –Brian Varneke