As we reach the halfway point in these 31 Reviews In 31 Days, it seems apt to mark that point with something gentle and soothing. We can take stock of what's happened thus far and I can ponder over what's coming next. But more importantly, it allows us all to revel in the beauty of this fine offering.
Brooklyn six piece Girl Skin are led by Sid Simons , who has released a wonderfully atmospheric album. Essentially Folk, but much more than that. That Folk blends with Americana and Classic Pop, indeed at times, I'm reminded of Marc Bolan's quieter moments.
In other hands, Ruby Wang's sumptuous violin would be folked up into jig accompaniment or Americana yee haw, not here. It is used melodically and at times haunts, adding to and at times leading the arrangements.
Shade Is On The Other Side is predominantly acoustic, but this isn't bedroom guitar strumming, everything is structured, minimal because a song doesn't need any more. The harmonies fill in the gaps, wonderfully so.
When they break away from the format on such as the singalong Soft Gun, the effect is just as engaging. This is a beauty of a song, loose enough to show there's more than just moody to the band. Simon's vocal on Star is so fragile that you feel he might break. The Last Ever Song is fabulous latter day Lennon Pop.
I've been very critical at some of the lockdown acoustic offerings. Not because I don't like the format, but because it all sounds so mediocre. Listen to this album and learn how to perform something simply with originality. To say this is a lovely album wouldn't do it justice. It is of course, but it is beautifully arranged and performed. This is an exceptional piece of work, cohesive and captivating.
You can listen to and buy the album here.
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