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| In The Key Of Earth |
Hailing from Hollywood, CA, In the Key of Earth
has recently released their self-titled debut. Comprised of songwriters Jazzlyn
Rose and David Kirsh, on keys and guitar respectively, lead vocalist Steinunn Osk
Axelsdottir, backing vocalists Anel Pedrero and Kirsche Messenger, In the Key
of Earth is a powerful, ballad-laden album, influenced by the likes of Depeche
Mode, Portishead, and Devin Townsend.
The album itself is well written, with its multiple layers
of instruments complimenting each other quite well. Many of these instruments
are keyboard parts of sorts, ranging from traditional piano to ambient synth,
while the guitars are largely clean or acoustic, though tracks such as “Aperture” and “River in a Cave” bring out a tasteful, if someone subdued, growl
from Kirsh’s strings. Steinunn’s vocals could not be more perfect for this
album. Simultaneously haunting and sultry, her voice pulls you into the song
and won’t let go, making it nearly impossible not to get lost in the album. The
harmonies and accents provided by backups Kirshe and Anel serve their purposes
quite well, emphasizing important lyrics and adding to the overall relaxing
ambiance of the album.
Perhaps not surprising, is the album’s use of the sounds of nature. Many tracks make use of the sounds of waves, running water, bird calls, and I think a couple added effects could be sampled whale songs, though I am not positive. These all combine to instill upon the listener the tranquility of being surrounded by trees and wildlife, while relaxing along the banks of a large, gentle river. All in all, In the Key of Earth is an excellent choice for anyone looking for some relaxing music to compliment a quiet afternoon.
My favorite songs off of this album are “The Cold”, “Aperture”, and “Healer the Musician”. “The Cold” is the album’s intro track, a
powerful opener that does a fantastic job of setting the album’s softer tones
and pulling the reader into its calming atmosphere. “Aperture” and “Healer the
Musician”, by comparison, are considerably more vibrant and energetic,
while still maintaining the relaxing vibe of the rest of the album.
The only critique I have of In the Key of Earth is that the mix between keys and guitar feels a
little off throughout the album. The keys cut through the guitars quite
consistently, leaving the string work feeling somewhat muffled. While I love “Aperture”, the guitars are quiet to the
point of losing their aggression; as one of the only songs where they’re
distorted more often than not, it takes some of the punch out of the song as a
whole.
All things considered, In the Key of Earth is a powerful debut album from a likewise named LA act. I highly recommend the album to anyone who enjoys softer music and ballads. Check them out through one of the links below and show them some love. This is certainly one album that deserves it.
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