All Things With Symmetry
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
Listen to All Things With Symmetry
A songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist who has played bass in several indie-rock bands, Pinewood is the solo vehicle for Sam Kempe, who brings much skill and attention to this debut EP.
The quick listen starts with the dreamy, organic and flowing melodies of “Riverbank”, where proficient looping and slightly ominous vocals guide the setting, and “Constellations” follows with strategic, playful banjo amid the introspective, hazy atmosphere.
The back half of the effort brings us the ethereal Americana and bluegrass influenced “Onward”, where Kempe’s strong vocal work soars high and yet is still intimate, and the title track exits the listen light and airy, where sublime singer-songwriter nods are displayed.
An impressive EP that relies heavily on mood and ambience, Kempe writes about dark periods with his craft, but there’s also light on the horizon, as the 4 tracks here retain a meditative spirit that’s immediately striking and highly articulate.
Travels well with: Pavey Ark- Close Your Eyes And Think Of Nothing; Big Fox- See How The Light Falls