If good tunes is what you’re about and what you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place. This Knotted Wood album is as good as it gets when it comes to nostalgic rhythms, progressions, and overall vibes. Even if you’re a youngster, you would most probably find yourself staying just because you have heard something like this before somewhere, only that it’s from different people, perspectives, and personal charms equipped within the sound itself.
Abruptly smooth and mildly sinister comes “You Are Here”, which is a fast-paced song that is still cohesive enough for listeners to enjoy both the sound and the lyrics just the same. The guitar and the bass are in tandem with one another, creating a pleasant on-the-go melody that’s hard to miss.
“Every Road” seems to be a continuation of what is already marking to be the album’s entire ambience: a thrilling storytelling, one that paints a picture, something to be played around the campfire, or the background noise during a detective on the clock. It’s traditionally American with how everything is put together and how every word is delivered, only with a hint of personal sentiments on love.
It’s clear that talented people are truly behind this work, at their best, with each element present in the songs bright and intricate. For instance, the opening guitar riff has a sharp edge to it in “Mystic Eyes”, and it has impeccable rhyming patterns. The progression itself treadly follows along, taking its time; the instrumentals are in no rush at all, anyone could tell. The lines “But after all the queens and hearts, I never seem to draw an ace” is a great metaphor for not hitting the jackpot despite the countless encounters and connections.
Moreover, the rhythm in “Charleston in the Spring” is attractive, one that would make listeners bob their head along to, and maybe even sing along if they come to learn the words. It feels and sounds like looking back on familiar settings, places, occurrences, becoming one in a single song. A similar feel is present in “Leaves”, as it’s something fitting for a busy park or plaza, placing itself in the middle of mellow and vibrant.
“Just in Time”, to put it simply, is such a great song to the point that it has managed to tickle a part of my brain when a specific part plays. The delivery is just spot on for the lines “When it’s time for us to find out what is was (What is was)”, addicting at best.
Piano and string-led track “Walk Beside Me” is melancholic, and can be taken as either a plea or a polite request for guidance. It’s a break, somewhat, from the usual paces and energies of the previous tracks. This time, listeners are just enveloped by the mellowness of the instruments and the sincerity of the vocals. However, “Far Side of Midnight” dives back into the mysterious energy heard at the beginning of the album. After a couple songs that seem lighthearted than the others, Knotted Wood makes the effort to remind everyone of their range and capability.
“Stand Still” is a resumption of upbeat goodness. The chorus is feel-good and catchy, something that screams traditional and old-fashioned, something that you could show someone of age and you’ll find them listening to it again the following days. Not to say that only a certain age range can enjoy these songs. Heck, it’s admirable how this album sticks to that genre and feel that it totally appeals to those who adhere to that preference.
Last but not the least, “Middle of Tomorrow” the title and the last track, has an intro that would instantly get you hooked. The guitar fill-ins, the lively aura… it’s everything a last song should be. Just from the chorus, you find yourself agreeing with what’s being said here: “The middle of tomorrow, you may find some sorrow / Troubles are not born, they just appear”, because it is true that you may start your day full of optimism, but the rest of it isn’t guaranteed to stay that way.
This is such an insightful record from seasoned musicians, and there’s nothing more to say or feel than to be grateful that people like them still continue to make music, keeping spirit and tradition alive. The words in these songs are endearing and something that would stay in your head for days just by how wise it all is. It’s a wonderful album, and you’d be missing out if you didn’t give it a shot.
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About the Author
Kate Clarice Lee is a psychology major in Ateneo de Naga University with a knack for music and writing. She takes interest in playing guitar, poetry, creative writing, and lyrics that—subjectively—hit close to home. Kate mostly enjoys indie, alternative, pop & punk rock music.
