Lee Wylding has been a fixture of the UK alt-Americana scene now for what feels like forever. Firstly, as frontman and de-facto leader with The Fireflys and in more recent times with The Far North. Sometimes a band, sometimes just Lee on his own, The Far North has continued Lee’s journey deeper into the genre’s roots whilst ensuring his own roots from the North West of England remain ever constant in his music.
Returning with his third record, ‘Songs For Weathering Storms,’ Lee offers his most intimate and emotional work yet. Encouraged by producer Jono Tringham to let the songs speak for themselves, the record does exactly that. Consciously, there are no drums on the record. Instead, the guitars and occasional keys provide the percussive elements that develop the emotional aspects of the records, complemented perfectly by understated fiddle and harmonica throughout.
‘Hummingbird’ bears witness to the power of this understated production and writing team coming together to make something very special indeed. A song that deals with self-evaluation, new hopes and new directions, the track has a feel that is instantly familiar, instantly comforting, one of those rare tracks that sounds like it’s always existed.
Release/Repeat – breaks with the lyrical totems of the record and tackles the subject of animal rights. As Lee says, more specifically, ‘how we see animals as simply food’. It’s a call for a plant-based future. Cutting down on meat consumption to make an individual stand, as we can all make a difference. Despite its heavy message, it’s the record’s most upbeat, most anthemic track. It must have taken a great deal of self-restraint from Lee and producer Jono not to turn this into a fully fledged full-band anthem, complete with driving drums and electric bass.
If you’re not familiar with The Far North, this record is a great starting point from which to work backwards across Lee’s portfolio. It also offers an ‘indie-friendly’ route into the Alt America genre, so light the fire, batten down the hatches, pour a nice glass of something and enjoy this record, ’Songs For Weathering Storms’ indeed.
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