Gravity Blanket
One Is Three, 2026
8/10
The New York songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Stephen Becker returns with a 4th album, where some guests are on hand for the diverse songs that pull from childhood memories.
The cozy and folk friendly climate of “Bad Idea” starts with soft melodies and Jason Burger’s agile drumming, and “Careless” follows with a playful buzzing and Joanna Schubert’s well timed vocals adding much to the harmonic nature.
“Bike” arrives in the middle and offers a scrappy delivery that’s very much in tune with today’s version of indie-rock, while “Sinking” enlists Adam Hirsch’s strategic Lyricon via the waves of graceful ideas and gentle songwriting.
Moving close to the end, “I’ll See You Around” benefits from Hirsch’s clarinet and Michael Coleman’s piano across the rich and atmospheric album highlight, and “Now, But Not Forever” exits with Becker’s eloquent voice and acoustic guitar in a heartfelt and sincere finish.
A thoughtful effort that’s full of reflection, Becker pens an atypical version of indie-folk that reminded me of late period Elliott Smith, which is never a bad thing.
Travels well with: Fugue State- After Nothing Comes; Babe Report- Did You Get Better