For fans of: Fionn Regan, Adrienne Lenker, Fleet Foxes, Young Waters, Grizzly Bear, Sufjan Stevens
Listen: https://thomcalladine.bandcamp.com/album/turn-of-the-wild-2
A songwriter and producer of remarkable versatility and humility, Thomas Calladine is a constant presence in Bristol’s thriving DIY alt-folk community, participating in its buzzing atmosphere of collaboration and curious exchange. Turn of the wild (out now) is a testament to the quiet graft of Calladine’s artistry, a self-produced bedroom masterpiece that weaves in contributions from some of the scene’s fellow emerging artists: boci, Pearl Love, Bea Piper, Maz McNamara, Louis Alberry, Maisie Brett. Unlike 2021’s Each time you go around the sun, which was written and recorded in about three months, the process for TOTW stretched over a period of three years, creating a patchwork chronicle of memories and stories of Calladine’s friendships and gentle revelations.
He says, “I see the album as an expression of the community I have developed in Bristol over the past few years since moving here in 2019. The songs speak of cycles in nature, animals and the spirit of the land, and are inspired by folktales as well as being a self-reflective journey. It’s hard to know when to stop with these sorts of projects, especially when there is always the option to tinker away, as all the recording was done from my bedroom. “
Each track on the album has a distinct sonic character, with eclectic instruments popping up for charming cameo moments captured in exquisite detail by Calladine’s attentive production. The janky, breathy harmonium on ‘My Brother Johnny’ recalls the visceral immersion of Neutral Milk Hotel, while the seamless interweaving of fingerpicked double guitar, banjo and other strings on ’99 or be 90′ and other tracks bring to mind the effortless layers of Adrienne Lenker or Sufjan Stevens. While the changing roster of guest musicians creates a sense of freshness throughout the album, the music finds its anchor in the steady, patient voice of Calladine, asking more questions than he answers, constantly bringing himself – and us – back to the details of the moment.
Cuculi Records 