Comparison is the lifeblood of most reviews, but apart from the nods to other artists and songs already mentioned above, Astoria sits quite comfortably in a an alt-country / rock / folk pocket all on its own. Leo Harmonay sounds very comfortable and accomplished in that skin and the breadth of his vision is impressive indeed.
Folk Rock
You can feel the stage-ready energy, and still the lyrics intrigue & draw you in closer. The song satisfies and refreshes, feels nostalgic & exciting in its newness all at once.
Rarely, if ever, has the voice in someone’s head been addressed in such a poetic, emotionally compelling, and strangely immersive fashion.
Fast-paced and loaded with equal parts organic and distorted sound design, Jeshua Marshall injects a heavy hit of rhythm and anthem-like energy into the scene with this infectious and striking new single No More.
Perhaps the most eclectic & interesting variety of originals from a singer-songwriter so far this summer. Parmy Dhillon writes from the heart and the depths of the mind, whilst also making sure to be audience aware every step of the way.
The soundscape and that leading voice evolve into operatic realms later on, leaning towards power-rock with multiple layers of passion and intensity intertwining; not least of all a beautiful and welcomed touch of electric guitar solo.
Growing Old isn’t the maudlin collection that you might expect from the title. What it is, is an appraisal of knowledge gained and lessons learned. An exploration of feelings and the sound of stock being taken. Best of all, it’s a wander through different soundscapes and states while all of the above is going on.
All in all, a fine introduction to a uniquely expressive band. A dash of Elliott Smith meets with a hint of Beach Boys and even a slight touch of Radiohead on occasion.
“I wish that music was all about the songs and not about the artist. Music should be judged alone on its inherent quality (or lack of) and not as a part of a greater story. Personally I can listen to an artist for years without having any interest in knowing more about them.”
Championing the story of the legendary relationship between Johnny Cash and June Carter, I Walk The Link For You feels like a quickly familiar, comforting hit.
If you’re missing the beach, the sea, the waves and the freedom – this album is for you.
Following the release of his stunning new album Islands, we caught an in-depth interview with Philadelphia-based artist and songwriter Jameel Farruk to talk about his musical journey so far, the process of making the album, and his hopes for the future. Here’s the conversation in full. * * * Hi Jameel – great to be … Continued