Crow Amongst The Sparrows
Self-Released, 2023
9/10
Listen to Crow Amongst The Sparrows
The debut album from the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ryan Wayne, the 8 songs here revolve around Americana and roots ideas, where some friends are on hand for the sincere and heartfelt pieces.
“Forty Paces To The Bottom” opens the listen with Kelley McCrae’s warm harmony vocals and an atmospheric and dense climate of swirling introspection, as Wayne’s distinct vocals draw us in, and “Maybe I’m To Blame” follows with Alex Needleman’s bass in attendance amid the thumping drums and more firm display of folk-rock.
The middle track belongs to the dreamy “Oh My Maria”, where Marla Celia’s pipes and Malcolm Burn’s synth make for hazy beauty, while “Bonafide Drifter” benefits much from Ruby Bleu’s expressive voice and Teppei Kamei’s well timed trumpet that help cultivate a rich and soaring album highlight.
Arriving near the end, Brain Kobayakawa’s skilled bass and the poetic singing are aglow amid the lush delivery, and “I Will Always Be Here For You” exits with a chilling intimacy that pairs Wayne’s lovely singing and McCrae’s elegant vocals alongside the soft and mesmerizing finish.
An excellent starting point for a tremendous talent, Wayne’s ability to blend psychedelia and ambience into his unique brand of Americana makes for an absorbing listening experience.
Travels well with: Noah Zacharin- Points Of Light; Julian Taylor- Beyond The Reservoir