ALBUM REVIEW: Distant Lands - Sirkel
Out from northern Illinois comes Distant Lands, the name of the mononymous Emily and her “lovely, medium-size guitar named Taylor Hendrickson.” Her debut album, Sirkel works to calm and sooth the mind. Being that the only instruments present on this album are the guitar and a great set of vocal pipes, the music is laid bare and exposed, with Emily promising honest and open music and lyrics.
One thing that’s really interesting is that there are three songs clocking at 7 minutes (!!) or at least nearing that (opening song “Railroad Song” clocks in at 6:51, just shy of the 7 minute mark, but I’m sure you understand time). One might be hesitant to dive into an album that takes it time establishing itself, but as if defying time and space itself, Emily never overstays her welcome. Instead, it’s as if a close friend of yours is over and playing music right in your living room. She mentions in her liner notes that it’s “music to make you feel at home,” and it is.
Take “railroad song,” where it’s gentle finger-picking melodies rise and fall but never fall totally and slowly Emily’s vocals emerge soft and pleasant:
"I went driving on the back roads, looking for something I went riding on the low train, looking for something And you and your cigarettes still haunt me"
It really is a fresh change of scenery. By that, I mean to say that you hardly hear this type of music. It’s refreshing (I am reminded of fellow independent artist Rebecca Karpen, though) and therapeutic in a way. The vocal melodies are sweet and just so so good. It’s relaxing and calm.
Though the album carries this sound and is indeed relaxing, Emily uses her music to get pointed points across as well, “taste of.” being particularly of note (jarring is not the word):
Why couldn't you tell me? You were too drunk to see that I loved every part of you Baby steps & cigarettes You're closer to me than a baby at the breast
Painstakingly honest, she does it with a minor melody and an ear for heartache music.
The music is, as she notes as well, atmospheric, and it’s that element that really drives the sound. It’s never overly long despite some of the running times and it really is nice to hear. Like a friend playing to you, or serenading you to sleep. It really is wonderful.
BEST SONGS: “railroad song,” “not / unready,” “nirvana in the mouth,” “lost soul”
