The Way Down
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
The multi-instrumentalist and rising Americana artist Van Plating might reside in Florida, but her slight rasp and country tinted ways sure would fit in well in Nashville across these 9 very carefully constructed songs.
“Bird On A Wire” starts the listen with a hypnotic form of Americana, where Plating’s pretty pipes are complemented by crisp drumming and warm guitar, and “How Lonely” follows with folk and indie-rock ideas entering her very poetic and intimate formula.
Elsewhere, “The Way Down” thumps with a firm beat as a darker quality graces the very thoughtful climate, while “Fallin’ Angel” is quite eloquent with subtle strings and a very expressive range from Plating in the gorgeous album highlight.
Residing near the end, the more forceful strumming of “Ghosts In The Garden” offers a very emotive and yet playful ambience, and “Oxygen” exits the listen with a bare and impactful finish where Plating’s stunning pipes are met with agile acoutic guitar amid a stirring atmosphere.
It’s not surprising that Plating is also a poet, as her very literate song craft takes inspiration from Patti Smith, and her forthrightness, heartfelt and timeless vision makes every track here worth much attention.
Travels well with: Single Girl, Married Girl- Three Generations Of Leaving; Abby Bryant & The Echoes- Not Your Little Girl