Emerging from the lush, mountainous Catskills of New York, Chris Fox & the Beasts are carving a unique niche in the indie folk rock scene. Their latest album, Rubatosis, named after the unsettling awareness of one’s own heartbeat, is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the quiet moments in between. With influences spanning from the timeless melodies of 70s songwriters to the poetic introspection of Conor Oberst and Devendra Banhart, the band’s music feels both deeply familiar and entirely fresh.
Fronted by Chris Fox, the band operates like a living, breathing organism—its form shifting with the input of Fox’s talented circle of musical friends. This fluidity is evident throughout Rubatosis, a collection of 11 tracks that juxtapose lyrical melancholy with bright, intricate instrumentation and undeniably catchy choruses.
The album opens with “Tearing You Apart”, an emotionally charged entry point that introduces listeners to the record’s central theme: the fragility of connection. Fox’s vocals are raw yet inviting, drawing you into a world where love isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth examining.
“Echo in the Dark” follows, with its haunting melody and reflective lyrics that evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia. Tracks like “Figure You Out” and “Seasons” bring a breezy yet contemplative vibe, with jangly guitars and rhythms that feel as organic as the forests surrounding the Catskills.
“Warm Enough” is a standout moment, blending tender vocals with shimmering instrumentals, creating a song that feels like a comforting embrace on a cold winter night. The introspective “Lost” and the gently rising “Would You Fall” show Fox’s ability to balance vulnerability with optimism, offering glimpses of hope amid the uncertainty.
The album takes a darker turn with “Ghosts (Out in the Night)”, a track that embodies the essence of Rubatosis. It reflects on the haunting presence of treasured friends and lovers, whether they’re physically gone or emotionally distant. Yet, even here, the music doesn’t wallow—it dances, buoyed by bright chords and Fox’s earnest delivery.
Closing with the anthemic “Wake the Dead”, Fox sings, “Well the morning took my breath // again it did // too young to wake the dead // oh ain’t ya kid.” It’s a powerful conclusion, encapsulating the album’s central motif of confronting life’s fleeting nature with courage and creativity.
Though Rubatosis delves into heavy themes, its vibrant musicality keeps it from feeling weighed down. Each track is a masterclass in balancing depth and accessibility, with storytelling that’s rich enough to linger in your mind long after the music stops.
Chris Fox & the Beasts have crafted an album that transcends time and place, delivering a heartfelt listening experience that feels as personal as a diary and as expansive as the Catskills themselves. Whether you’re a fan of indie folk, classic rock, or heartfelt songwriting, Rubatosis is an album you won’t want to miss.
