There is an undeniable West Coast vibe that percolates throughout U.S. Elevator’s self-titled first record. This is to be expected, as the project is helmed by Santa Barbara-based Johnny Irion (who has gained a following on albums recorded with his wife, Sarah Lee Guthrie), and Bay Area mainstay and Mother Hips frontman Tim Bluhm contributes on guitar and keys, while working behind the boards as producer. A two-minute instrumental, “Pierre Lafond,” kicks off the album, creating
a mystical mood with wordless vocals coasting over layers of guitar and the sounds of a sitar. The track is reminiscent of The Beatles’ “Flying,” and several other songs have a Magical Mystery Tour/solo John Lennon ambience, especially the two that immediately follow—the multi-layered harmonies and the crisp guitars of “Can I Make It Up to You” and the piano-and-drum-led, tongue-in-cheek “Community Service.” A Laurel Canyon influence is also heavy throughout, making this breezy set an enjoyable ride for anyone who likes the idea of dusting off a Gram Parsons or CSNY record for a drive down the Pacific Coast Highway.