Henry Grace – “Things”
-There’s something about the chill guitar work in the opening of this song that made the hair on the back of my neck stand up. It just feels so genuine; then, when I heard Grace’s vocal I was instantly hooked. When I tell people that I listen to folk music, this is what I want them to understand. There’s an existential peacefulness to this song that makes me feel a connection to the artist, to the mood, and frankly to the universe. I’m not trying to be hyperbolic; this song really hits me deeply. The peaceful acoustic is only part of the alchemy, but it’s a big part. The lyrics are enough to make a grown man ponder, I’ll say that.
Laughter Lines – “Aphantasia”
-I have so many things I want to say about this song, but let me start by saying the opening is a bit atmospheric and not really the way the “folk rock” style is when it takes off… so just… take a breath and give it a chance. The other thing that I want to say on a personal note is that I *think* I have aphantasia. There was a wild conversation with my family when we talked about “what do you see when you envision and apple in your mind?” and I was like “uh… it’s black… but I know what an apple looks like.” So this song takes that condition and turns it into a love song. It’s about picturing that person right where you need them in your life. It’s incredibly well written and the vocal harmonies are excellent. All the wordplay about the mind, vision, and connecting those to romance is really wonderful. This is the kind of song that reminds me why I became a blogger in the first place; I want EVERYONE I know to hear this song. It’s so well done. I mean… please, listen, feel it… and share it.
Thomas Strayhorn – “Sweet Little Minds”
-There’s something about the way the acoustic guitar climbs up the scale on this song that makes me think of the Avett Brothers literally EVERY time. That’s pretty good company to be in for a first impression. The lyrics are intriguing, thoughtful, and unfortunately relatable. I say unfortunately because it’s about complaining about someone you care about. There’s an accessible style to the songwriting that reminds me of classic folk work. There’s a delicate acknowledgement of mental health concerns, the ways that we all need to let loose a bit more, and the gentle familiarity with our common human experience. Maybe I’m doin’ too much here, but I think this is a charming song that makes me feel a bit more “normal” even though I understand there’s no such thing. Thank heaven for medications that help folks get the help they need. The song’s got a jangle about it, which I appreciate, but maybe the heart of the piece is what I love the most. Give it a spin!
Image courtesy: Thomas Strayhorn IG
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