Multi-instrumentalist Olly Davidson leads us with evocative and unique, classically inspired piano, into an ambient, reverb-soaked realm of quiet contemplation, and contrastingly uplifting indie gems, for the beautiful new album Up and Awake.
Based out of Scotland, Wombat Browning’s album begins with a dreamy and melodic, acoustic to retro-keys and colourful Subs Bench, then quickly morphs into something more playful and energised, but utilising that same balance of organic piano and mildly electrified keys and guitars. Early To Bed is a catchy indie pop rock song, with a crucially interesting story at its core.
Wombat Browning employs genuinely original lyrics throughout this project, and the short lines and sharp, vivid imagery of Early To Bed, along with its Brit-pop melodic styling, helps underline that quality early on.
This entire album is a breath of fresh air in so many ways. The music is freely expressive, structurally unpredictable, the lyrics equally intriguing, but the sound also makes sure to engage and impress its audience.
From Old Glue through Heritage Crush, the vibe meanders and keeps you interested, the multi-instrumental prowess of Olly letting each audio venture feel like some new chapter in the full story. It’s entertaining, eclectic, and consistently fascinating, and Olly’s voice is so accessible and nuanced on top of all of this.
Up and Awake is quite sensational, in short, and is an album I’ll be spending more time letting ring out this season. A definite recommend, from a talented and distinctive musician and storyteller.
Find Wombat Browning on Instagram.
