Build Our Dreams
Fox Run, 2026
8/10
Neale Eckstein really impressed me with 2024’s Never Too Late, and this follow up is following a similar course thanks to the thoughtful indie-folk ideas that take help from many excellent players.
“Always Been Older Than Me” opens with Eckstein’s honest voice alongside Pedro Silveira’s warm mandolin that adds much grace and melody, and “All The Little Things” follows with Eric Schwartz’s organ that suits Eckstein’s romantic singing and cozy guitar.
In the middle, “Empty Frame On The Wall” welcomes Nikos Mavridis’ stirring violin amid the eloquent storytelling in an intimate setting, while “I Just Want To Talk To You” makes great use of Josué Gonzalez’s mature keys that complement the impressive range Eckstein hits with emotion.
Landing near the end, “If You Could See Me” pairs Ben Triggs’ heartfelt cello with Eckstein’s soft guitar and powerful wordplay via a sparse beauty, and “Mr. Ashe” exits with Bruno Migliari’s bass that aligns with vivid prose.
An album that is a sequence of human portraits, Eckstein’s songs are relatable and touching, where his formula pulls from life experience with tremendous care and honesty.
Travels well with: Neale Eckstein- Never Too Late; Todd Mack- I’m Gonna Love You No Matter What