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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\u2019s journey deeper into the genre\u2019s roots whilst ensuring his own roots from the North West of England remain ever constant in his music.<\/p>\n
Returning with his third record, \u2018Songs For Weathering Storms,\u2019 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.<\/p>\n
\u2018Hummingbird\u2019 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\u2019s always existed.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Release\/Repeat \u2013 breaks with the lyrical totems of the record and tackles the subject of animal rights. As Lee says, more specifically, \u2018how we see animals as simply food\u2019. It\u2019s 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\u2019s the record\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re not familiar with The Far North, this record is a great starting point from which to work backwards across Lee\u2019s portfolio. It also offers an \u2018indie-friendly\u2019 route into the Alt America genre, so light the fire, batten down the hatches, pour a nice glass of something and enjoy this record, \u2019Songs For Weathering Storms\u2019 indeed.<\/p>\n
CHECK OUT THE FAR NORTH ON<\/strong> INST<\/a>AGRAM<\/a> \/<\/b> <\/a>X<\/a> \/<\/b> <\/a>FAC<\/a>EBOOK<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n MORE NEWS AND REVIEWS FROM RGM <\/strong>HERE<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n \n