The Space Between
Spins The Gold, 2024
8/10
The 5th album of cosmic tinted folk-pop from the quartet The Heart Collectors, the 13 songs here navigate around nostalgia, heartfelt ideas and plenty of warmth thanks to these Australian’s inviting formula.
The mysterious and nature-esque “Energy” starts the listen with Reuben Loire’s mesmerizing electric guitar alongside Kymrie Henge’s striking vocals populating the cryptic mood, and “Evergreen” follows with Henge’s mature keys and Mobius Barnaby’s cozy upright bass making for a lush, folk-pop climate.
At the halfway point of the formal release, “The Garden” emits a gorgeous intimacy thanks to the hushed singing and sublime bass playing, while “Hold On”, a live in the studio track, displays roots and bluegrass nods thanks to the flowing guitars, hand clapping and harmonic group vocals.
The final track before the bonus material, “Where The Light Rests”, finds a dreamy place to reside amid the twinkling piano and poetic singing, and of the 3 bonus tracks- all of which are live- “Woodstock” showcases the bands ‘70s influences and Tristan Dafoe’s fluid mandolin playing.
Eight of these pieces are brand new, and a pair have been reworked from their 2014 debut. A highly inspirational body of work, there’s even a Paul Simon cover included on the bonus material (“Kathy’s Song”), and it all makes for inviting balladry and fuller, sonically engaging songs that create a memorable, modern folk affair.
Travels well with: Ynana Rose- Under A Cathedral Sky; Leslie Evers- Bound For Land