UK-based singer-songwriter Blake released his latest album “Plainsongs” on the 2nd of Jue, 2023. Drawing inspiration and influence from classic rock icons such as The Beatles and R.E.M “Plainsongs” takes you on a forty-two-minute long journey through a range of sounds and melodies that are unrelentingly vibrant and fill you with warmth. “Plainsongs” is Blake’s fourth album release and its 11 songs are all gems that are worth exploring!
Opening on an absolutely fantastic track “Hideaway”, Blake perfectly sets up the tone of this album and you understand perfectly the emotional core of the music. “Time for a Change” is the second song on this album and continues the sunny vibe and carries a poignant message about introspection and personal growth delivered through a vibrant melody. The third song “Make Love Not War” slows things down with a funky bassline and the clearest 60s-influenced sound with its anti-war messaging. As a huge fan of the Beatles and their sound stylings, this song spoke to me and was my stand-out favourite from the album. “I’m the One” is a fun energy-filled ride that takes its dirty guitars and lively vocals and has me cranking the volume up to eleven. Blakes takes a push-pull approach to the arrangement giving you quiet moments in between the rush and adrenaline and “Siren Song” is one of those quiet moments with the gorgeous guitars and vulnerable feel. “I Wish I Had Never Believed In Love” is another standout track with its new wave-inspired sound. “Plainsong/Hear Me Jesus” is the most musically subversive song on the album with the gospel choir singing in the opening, quickly switching gears and taking on a fully classic rock sound that is quintessential 70s. “Up” is the uplifting anthem and its vocals lines are hooky and upbeat. “Sweet Country Lady” is an evocative track that is a bit of a slow burn but ultimately makes elevates your senses with its rising energy. “Rainbow’s End” is atmospheric and another one of those quiet moments that I mentioned that are sprinkled through the album that acts as the perfect jumping pad to the album’s explosive finish “Out of Reach”.
Blake is an amazingly talented musician and his fourth album “Plainsongs” is definitely a worthwhile listening experience. While it rises and falls in its energy choosing to switch out pure powerful rock for intimate songs through its runtime, the album never has a dull moment and will keep you engaged as you listen through it. Blake really does understand how to capture the magic of the 60s and 70s and “Plainsongs” shines through as a ray of sunlight in the current indie-rock scene and is well worth your time, so do go check it out!
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