All Things Go
BMG, 2020
8/10
An indie-folk outfit from Berlin, the trio of Mighty Oaks, Ian Hooper, Claudio Donzelli, and Craig Saunders, return with another batch of their well thought out and cautious song craft.
“All Things Go” starts the listen with warm acoustic guitars and calm vocals on the rootsy flavored indie-rock setting, and “I Need You Now” follows with elegant melodies and fluid percussion in the soothing atmosphere that recruits pop sensibilities.
Further along, “Lost Again” finds the outfit getting dreamy in a sparse delivery with plenty of ambience, while “Aileen” resides closer to folk territory where strings make a big impact, as does Hooper’s strong vocal prowess. “What You Got”, one of the standout tunes, then employs hand clapping as quick instrumentation and flowing melodies leave an indelible mark.
Near the end, “Fly To You” illustrates skilled guitar picking in a bare but impactful moment where some of the album’s best harmonies reside and “Kids” ends the listen with spirited guitars and graceful keys in a slightly darker but no less charming exit.
All Things Go, their 3rd LP, shows the multi-instrumentalists growing steadily with their art, as this new effort combines direct lyricism with much attention to detail and fluid songwriting.
Travels well with: Agnes Obel- Myopia; Animal Years- Far From Home