Forest Swords is the work of multi-instrumentalist Matt Barnes and a breath of fresh air for me. I've been listening to an increased amount of ambient and electronic music recently. Engravings doesn't sit comfortably in either category, but it is simply brilliant.
Barnes has been something of an elusive character, after releasing the excellent Dagger Paths he shunned offers from labels and was reluctant to take the spotlight. However a serious tinnitus problem almost forced him give up making music altogether. Thankfully for us he didn't and it maybe impacted his decision to work with Tri-angle records to release 'Engravings', as well as giving over more control in terms of press etc than ever before.
'Engravings' is a fresh, unique and stirring listen from start to finish. It incorporates elements of dub, dark hip hop beats, textured ambience while incorporating a lot more throughout. The result is truly engaging and reminds me of the feeling i got when I first heard Dj Shadow's What Does Your Soul Look Like EP.
It carries an authority that suggests it could have a massive impact; at times also reminiscent of Portishead's musical style. Obviously, mostly vocal free, but the recurring Ennio Morricone vibe gives it that quality. Retaining an organic air about it with emotion running through each track. In fact due partly to his health issues Barnes mixed most if the record outdoors, taking place on Thurstaston Hill in his Wirral surroundings. These surroundings influence the theme of Engravings, as Barnes delved into the history and folklore of the area.
Evidence of which can be found in the likes of ‘Thor's Stone’, which is a brooding manipulation of sound. Stabs of synth surrounded by heavy slo-mo beats. One of the many highlights across the ten tracks on offer.
‘The Weight of Gold’ is another, dub rhythms, with fractured injections of melodies and some of that spaghetti western soundtrack feel. With Forest Swords, Barnes manages to incorporate familiar elements together while creating an engaging and fresh listen.
The vocal contribution of Brighton artist Anneka on ‘Anneka's Battle’ lends a dreamlike quality and is goosebump inducing. With the deep bass rumble and gentle melodic track grapping your attention fully.
Engravings is at times hypnotic and demonstrates the genius quality Forest Swords takes in constructing sound.
In all I could pick apart each track and the many moments of awe inducing magic. In reality it's best left for you to discover for yourself.
Certainly a contender for one of the must hear albums of the year and I expect to hear a lot more about Forest Swords in the months to come.
