Anniversary
Outside, 2024
8/10
A Toronto multi-instrumentalist whose songs are as heartfelt as they are memorable, Abigail Lapell pens songs about love, relationships and loss of youth, where guest spots from the Great Lake Swimmers won’t go unnoticed.
The cozy spirit of “Anniversary Song” starts the listen with eloquent singing alongside crisp drums and hints at pop ideas, and “Footsteps” follows with graceful keys that allow for Lapell’s poetic vocals to emit much beauty.
Further along, the warm strumming of “Blue Blaze” embraces timeless folk qualities that radiate much beauty, while “Someone Like You” layers the emotive singing over a thicker presence of melodic and flowing indie-rock ideas which hint at firmer moments.
Approaching the end, “Wait Up” gets a bit more rugged, where Lapell’s dense guitar is met with soulful brass, and “Stars” exits with a distinct dreaminess that’s mesmerizing and vulnerable.
A body of work that’s often steeped in balladry, Lapell can bring to mind Gillian Welch or Laura Veirs, and her finger-style guitar, harmonica and piano prowess touches on the human experience in relatable, thoughtful ways.
Travels well with: Andrea Von Kampen- Sister Moon; Lowland Hum- At Home