For Comrades and Lovers - Rookie Mistake’s Debut Album
All the way from New York and far from most fields, comes the debut album Fields of Plenty from indie rock four-piece, Rookie Mistake.
Their first EP, “I Will Not Die in Upstate New York” came out in 2024. Yet, despite being the follow up, Fields of Plenty is a pretty large departure sonically.
Photo courtesy of Rookie Mistake
“She turns to me, says “Have you ever been in love?
Is it as good as it seems? Or is it all made up?”
Fields of Plenty is a languid and exploratory indie/slacker rock project that clocks in at just under half an hour. Driven by folky acoustic guitars and vocals that sound straight from the 90s, this album feels timeless and nostalgic as it explores the past and future through the life changes and romance. The albums second track, “Evelyn” is incredibly representative of this with its warm instrumentals backing up lyrics that are downright earnest in its uplifting pining of the titular girl.
Rookie Mistake isn’t afraid to get a little experimental though, a commendable feat for a nine-track record. “Playing Dead” begins with soft and folksy strumming which gives way into a DnB (Drum and Bass) buildup. It has no lyrics, just some humming and quiet shouting vocals, really letting the listeners feel this transition. It’s so interesting how well this works for a song that’s only a little over two minutes long.
Photo Courtesy of Rookie Mistake
“For Comrades and Lovers” however provides a beautiful closing to this project as vocalist, Gambardella assures listeners “There’s no shame in letting go / Just figured I should let you know”. This song may be my favorite on the album, if I’m being completely honest. I just love how much it feels like the closing track of a nostalgic teen movie. I’m not sure it was intentional, but if it was, then Rookie Mistake hit the nail on the head.
If I’m being completely honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this album when I got the offer to review it. I had never heard of the band, I mean they have just around 700 listeners on Spotify. But, this was stellar debut album that showcases just what this band has to offer. If you’re a fan of Noah Kahan and you’re looking for new music, definitely check out Fields of Plenty.
