Sturtz, the folk group that first captured hearts with their debut album You've Done This Before, has returned with a sophomore effort that deepens their exploration of sound and sentiment. Their latest release, Hyacinth, is a lush collection of emotionally driven tracks that resonate with themes of nostalgia, longing, and introspection.
From the outset, Hyacinth invites listeners into its serene soundscape, where melodic vocals soar over the intricate arrangements of cello, banjo, and bass. The album showcases the unique talents of Andrew Sturtz (vocals, guitar), Courtlyn Carpenter (cello, harmonies), Will Kuepper (bass, harmonies), and Jim Herlihy (banjo, harmonies), all contributing to a rich curtain of sound.
The opening track, "Beck and the Call", sets the mood with its contemplative lyrics about impulses and journeys—"It's the rise and the fall / The beck and the call," a reflective tone that lingers through the album, notably in "Look What You Found", which encourages a proactive approach to life. "You've gotta get up / Go confront your stuff."
As the album unfolds, tracks like "Mom Song" and "Wasted Time" touch on personal memories and the bittersweet nature of growing up. "You gave me all that I needed for the rest," Sturtz sings in "Mom Song", evoking a sense of appreciation intertwined with loss. Meanwhile, "Wasted Time" poignantly reflects on the passage of youth and the fleeting nature of cherished moments.
Despite moments of introspection, Hyacinth doesn't shy away from more upbeat tones. "Recess", with its subtly lively rhythm, reminds listeners of the joy found in spontaneity, while the closing track "Bird Song" embraces dreams and possibilities, asking, "I crafted a list of dreams / I should probably chase some."
Hyacinth truly attests to Sturtz's growth as musicians and storytellers. With its warm, soothing sound and holding instrumentation, this album is sure to get folk fans and anyone who appreciates the beauty of nostalgia wrapped in heartfelt melodies wanting more.
Stream Hyacinth below.
Sam is a mediocre artist, musician, and the founder and editor in chief of UNXIGNED. He is a Juris Doctor who leads an excitingly boring life in the confines of his room juggling studies with passion and dreams. He is terrible at finding balance but gets by anyhow. He wants you to follow his artist pages and channels for when he decides to up his game. Pretty open for collabs and will mix your would-be hit song for cheap.
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