Empty Spaces
New Pain, 2020
9/10
Eliot Bronson made me a fan pretty quick with his 2014 self-titled album, and this time the troubadour delivers a concept record where themes of lust, romance, betrayal and loss are present as Bronson handles producing duties on the very intimate affair.
“Visitor” starts the listen bare and warm, as Bronson’s soft, inimitable vocals steer a very mature and reflective opener that hints at country, and “Let Me Go” continues the elegance with a very cautious brand of Americana that isn’t afraid to flirt with rock and a waltz like atmosphere, too.
Elsewhere, “She Loves The Mountains” certainly moves with a rural spirit with playful acoustic strumming, while “Atlanta” offers much attention to mood as pedal steel helps cultivate a sublime climate that gets a bit eerie. “Mountain In My Mind”, one of the standout tunes, then offers folk influences with much beauty amid the sparse environment that inevitably reminds us of Bob Dylan.
“Empty Spaces” and “Gone” exit the listen, where the former glides with soft melodies amid some pop influences, and the latter finds a dreamy place to reside with harmonica complementing the soothing, touching finish.
Absolutely one of the brightest talents in today’s indie-folk scene, Empty Spaces is ultimately an album that surrounds heartbreak, and Bronson’s creative and lush skill set makes this another essential record in his very moving and emotionally gripping catalog.
Travels well with: Drunken Prayer- Cordelia Elsewhere; Birds Of Chicago- Love In Wartime