Play 90 second soundbite of 'Bullets' @ 'CD quality'
Calming River seems to have a penchant for quite depressing, dirge-like songs. There's nothing up-lifting to be found here; this is one for those that are prepared to listen hard and appreciate what's on offer. Quite clearly a gifted wordsmith and accomplished guitarist, the main man lays his work down sensitively and weirdly appealingly. Calming River's vocal work is also suitably dark sounding; very low key, but again, totally in keeping with the chosen style.
Now, if I'm making this sound uninteresting I certainly don't mean to. I like this guy's work very much. But, I don't think his style is massively commercial - Calming River is definitely one for the acoustic experimentalists out there!
Instrumentally, Calming River reminds me, in parts, of Roy Harper, particularly when he's picking at the lower register end of things. But also, his nimble fingers remind me of the bright side of Nick Drake's work. It's a really strange but interesting style of playing and it works very well within the context of the songs' structures. Generally, everything's kept minimalistic allowing the guitar work to feature strongly.
'Fields Of Wood' by Calming River is excellent in its way. I wouldn't recommend it though if you're feeling at all down or depressed; it might prove a step too far! Definitely not 'chart' material but most definitely one for discerning ears. And, probably something for men to enjoy and women to complain about. An unusual, thought provoking work to sit and listen to - not background music! I like it - many others will too - but many won't - that's the truth of it!
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