Josh Ostrander has had a long alt-rock career, fronting first Laguardia and then Eastern Conference Champions, as well as producer work, but he’s since gone the solo singer/songwriter route as Mondo Cozmo. His big, popular uplift shines through with his Cozmo latest, This Is For the Barbarians.
Barbarians is decidedly a record of hope, leaning into the relatively mainstream ‘up with people’ that made Coldplay so popular, on songs like the opener “Electrify My Love” or sway of love to close finisher “Lord”. But Ostrander also has a wry side, pointing towards young Dylan, such as the rambling poet with a smirk of “Meant For Livin’”, or hope for his land in “Good Mornin’ America” (Ostrander even sings, “Shelter from the storm”).
Distinctly broader than deeper, This Is For the Barbarians is quite accessible, and thankfully doesn’t wear its positivity too thin. Plus, we all need our spirits lifted these days.
