Signposts And Marks
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
The sophomore album from the New England artist Erin Ash Sullivan, the 12 songs here emit a bluegrass influence and welcome Doug Kwartler on production and additional instruments.
“Goat On A Stone Wall” starts the listen with Sullivan’s bright voice alongside warm guitar and fluid picking that suits the quick pace, and “Rest Stop Bird” follows with pretty strings and much intimacy to complement the poetic singing.
Deeper into the listen, “One Time I Stole A Book” comes with a distinct dreaminess that highlights the vivid storytelling of the cautious climate, while “Eat The Pie” is a folk influenced moment that’s playful and wise while also making us hungry.
Landing close to the end, “We Walk The Flats”, one of the best tracks, allows Sullivan’s flawless pipes to shine amid harmonic string interaction, and “Before You Go” exits with a heartfelt demeanor, where much beauty is present.
Sullivan handles vocals, guitar and ukulele, and Kwartler’s contributions are many for a record that explores all the small moments that make up the human experience, and they’re delivered with eloquence, emotion and relatability.
Travels well with: Karyn Oliver- Cherchez La Femme; Katie Oates- Edge Of A Hurricane