Pan Am Down - One [CD]

Pan Am Down started as a solo project by Joshua Kraemer (Ultra Cindy/Collider/Her Sparkle Dims) in Brooklyn, NY while he was a NYC Transit Worker. He recorded 'One' which was released 2/17/09 on Imperfect Smile Records. After a short solo tour of the Northeast, the decision was made to move back to Norfolk, VA and build a band around what he had started. As things always seem to find a way of coming together, the new Pan Am Down line up is right where it needs to be with the addition of Ralph Bautista (Collider & Her Sparkle Dims), Tiffany Riley (No Flowers for Him) and Justin Trauger. The band looks forward to getting back into the studio this summer to record an EP, to be released in early fall on Imperfect Smile Records. REVIEW: The Big Takeover 64; Pan Am Down, 'One' by Mark Suppanz Guitarist/singer JOSHUA KRAEMER was previously in Virginia shoegazers ULTRA CINDY, who released an LP called Mermaid's Parade, and appeared on Brilliant/Spin Art's Wyatt's Torch compilation in 1994. After stints with DAMIEN JURADO, SUPERCHUNK, and THE WEDDING PRESENT, the now Brooklyn-based Kraemer returns with this new project. Here he plays more stripped-down, introspective acoustic (and occasional electric) folk-pop, handling virtually all the instruments, even doing his own harmonizing. The ominous moniker (referencing the now-defunct airline where my uncle coincidentally worked for many years) is perhaps an allegory for the despondent subject matter, in which Kraemer addresses themes of lost love, regret, and missed opportunities. But it's Kraemer's graceful, comforting croon, a genuine willingness to bare his soul, and his attractive, resonant playing, that will keep you absorbed throughout. (imperfectsmilerecords.com) Review: Brick Weekly, Richmond, VA Events Do It