Some albums have a way of taking the listener on a journey. This could be made possible through thematic underlinings, overall vibe, lyrical content or how each song has something sonically different to offer. A recent example of this is “Boxed the Compass”, the third album from local alt-rock act Foul Weather Friend that came out back on February 15 via the Warren based record label 75orLess Records. The quartet of Cranston resident Steve Nagy on vocals & guitar, the Warwick based rhythm section of drummer Dana Lemoine and bassist Bruce Humphrey and North Kingtown’s Martin Walsh on lead guitar exhibit a substantial amount of variety in numerous ways. Like their previous material, the new record embraces both the powerpop and Americana styles while touching upon numerous topics.

Reminiscing about days of youth with the radio being on in the car, cranking the hits, lost friendships, people with nothing to lose and nights out in Providence are just a few of the subjects covered in the tracks within “Boxed the Compass”. There’s also some interesting ambient and atmospheric qualities within Nagy’s singing. It could be from the way they’re produced, but they add an interesting element to the chords, riffs, bass lines and beats. The overall sound quality is impressive and it’s the best trait that the new album has. All the instruments come in substantially and the same can be said for the harmonies and arrangements.

“Dangerous Man” starts it all off with a killer drum beat from Lemoine and emphatic guitars from both Nagy and Walsh. Exemplifying the nostalgic reminiscing I previously mentioned, “Rock n’ Roll Heroes” is an ode to the greats of yore that have since passed on and the effect they have on whoever listens to their tunes. “Spirits of the City” speaks to anyone who goes downtown to enjoy themselves as Nagy provides his own commentary on urban nightlife with his singing. There’s a certain grit to “Every Day The Madness” that comes from the guitars, which I enjoy a lot. Other highlights of the new album include “Le Navire” and “Ether”, but just listen to “Boxed the Compass” from beginning to end for the whole experience.

To go see some of the music from the album performed live, catch Foul Weather Friend at Askew on 150 Chestnut Street in Providence on May 5. Other acts on the bill for that will be the local funk-blues band Queensboro Hustlers and rock act Left On Luther. If you’re just looking to check out the album and give it a listen, log on to Foul Weather Friend’s Bandcamp page at foulweatherfriend.bandcamp.com. You can also just grab a copy at the upcoming gig, but do whatever works best for you. Regardless, it’s a record that deserves the attention of any rock music fan.