Heart & Horizon
Boreal Bard, 2025
9/10
The Minnesota artist Bryan Schumann pulls from pop, folk, indie-rock, electronic and even classical for these 9 diverse and memorable tracks.
The warm acoustic strumming of “Open Road” starts with breathy vocals and elegant strings that make an immediate impression, and “By Your Side” follows with rich horns and cozy singing in a dreamy climate.
Moving into the middle, “Do Ya Wanna” is a playful moment that uses punchy drumming and pop ideas, while “Questions” recruits firm strings and a lush approach that’s emotive and cinematic.
Near the end, the frisky “Ruby” is a love letter to Schumann’s cat, and “Lost Light” exits with a tense and textured demeanor that’s intricate and engaging.
An effort that’s never short on melodies or dance floor ready bouts, Schumann and his company from across the globe make for timeless and worldly songwriting.
Travels well with: Ævn- Tides; Graybeat- Special Characters