The Rhizome Project
Self-Released, 2024
10/10
The always exceptional vocalist and composer Moira Smiley is joined by strings and many backing vocalists for the very unique version of folk sounds that are enlightening and powerful.
“Go Dig My Grave” opens with strong attention to mood, where Smiley’s expressive pipes are met with plenty of backing vocals for the warm spirit, and “Mouring Dove” follows with light strings and a distinct dreaminess that emits much beauty.
Moving into the middle, the sublimely bowed strings of “Now Is The Cool Of The Day” allows for Smiley’s pretty pipes to shine, while “Standing On The Shore” showcases the rich violin and eloquent cello amid the impressive range.
Arriving near the end, “Awake Awake” is a bare moment of stunning musicianship, where the focus on Smiley’s voice radiates a poetic delivery, and “Great Trees” exits with cautious textures via the meticulous strings and emotive singing.
There’s also a book to accompany this album, which tells the stories of the songs, and the guests spots from Merrill Garbus (Tune-Yards), JT Bates (Taylor Swift, Bon Iver), Seamus Egan (Solas), and Taylor Ashton only enhance the intrigue of this incredible body of work.
Travels well with: Mighty Poplar- Mighty Poplar; Lindsay Lou- Queen Of Time