Carter Brady’s ‘Shopping Cart‘ is a modern rock record that modernises ‘90s alt-rock. The 13 tracks showcase Brady’s skill as a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter – demonstrating his roots in classic and 90’s alt-rock whilst still keeping it modern and fresh. Hailing from Pelham, New York, Brady delivers an album that merges familiar tones with a modern sensibility to create a cohesive package.
The album opens with the punchy, riff-driven single ‘We’re Talking’, setting a powerful tone with its melodic hooks and big guitar sound. From the get-go, it’s clear that Brady isn’t just revisiting the past; he’s reinterpreting it. The track captures the raw energy of acts like Foo Fighters and Nirvana, establishing a strong entry point into the versatile journey that follows. Throughout the album, Brady demonstrates an impressive ability to adapt his style across different rock sub-genres, from grunge and alternative rock to hints of psychedelic and indie flavours.
Tracks like ‘Instead’ and ‘So Late’ channel the quintessential ‘90s vibe, reminiscent of bands like Weezer and Oasis. The catchy guitar riffs, layered harmonies, and infectious choruses are sure to appeal to fans of this golden era of alt-rock. Brady’s knack for creating memorable melodies shines through, as each song brings its own unique hook while still fitting seamlessly into the overall album narrative.
A standout moment comes with ‘Lost In This World’, which features a bass-driven groove that brings to mind the atmospheric elements of Radiohead’s The Bends. The subtle shifts in dynamics and thoughtful production choices keep the listener engaged, showing Brady’s maturity as a songwriter. The emotionally charged ballad ‘How Come It Happens?’ closes the album on an introspective note, highlighting his lyrical depth and ability to convey genuine emotion.
Brady’s DIY approach to recording most of the instruments himself gives Shopping Cart a personal and authentic touch. However, contributions from his live band and notable features like Nirvana’s In Utero cellist Lori Goldston on ‘Invincible’ add layers of depth and texture to the record. The album’s production, with its rich, full sound, complements Brady’s versatile guitar work, from the crunchy distortion of ‘Suppressed’ to the psychedelic tones on ‘Late Night Temptations’.
Shopping Cart is not just a throwback to a bygone era; it’s a modern indie rock record that respects its roots while forging its own path. With critical acclaim already building, it’s clear that Brady’s diverse songwriting and dedication to his craft have resulted in a rock album that stands out in today’s music landscape. Whether you’re a fan of the ‘90s alt-rock scene or new to the genre, Shopping Cart offers a fresh yet familiar listening experience that’s hard to resist.
Photo by Alexa Jae
