Otto Benson

Otto Benson presents Peanut, his second LP with Palto Flats this year, following Songs Before Bed. Known for his prolific output and enthusiastic following, with music released under the aliases OTTO and Memo Boy, Otto released Peanut as a digital-only album earlier this year to wide acclaim, including a Best New Music mention from Pitchfork.

On Peanut, Otto Benson stretches out as a songwriter, fully exploring the use of voice for the first time. Accompanied mostly by the strumming of his guitar and keyboard (save for two instrumentals, “Mr. Peanut” and “Soy Beans,” the only tracks to also employ percussion), Peanut finds a newfound warmth. Using lyrics and voice as an instrument, Otto leans into the atmosphere of each song, playing directly to the listener, as if performing in their room.

An understated, psychedelic folk record, Peanut’s musical palette belies a depth of lyrical and tonal expression, playing with personal themes imbued with a sense of wistful detach- ment. Its minimal instrumentation heightens this effect: as each song unfolds, layers build beneath Otto’s voice, subtly shading them in. On “Drive Away,” Otto is accompanied by Henry Munson, whose warbling slide guitar adds a colorful twang to the song’s sense of drift.

These tunes are familiar and recognizable, yet elusive at the same time. Songs like “Red and Neon,” “Raisin,” and “Witnessing” are total earworms, Otto’s voice humming alongside his guitar. A collection of intimate songs, Peanut finds a new path forward for Otto Benson, one he ventures alongside his listeners.