The songs of Amsterdam-based folk four-piece Malcanisten harken back to a time of bards, balladeers and rhapsodists utilizing the olden convention of music pre-dating recorded sound. And perhaps that is the bare approach interwoven throughout their recently released Wake EP.
The opening-track, “The Oven” opens pliant and sweet, like tranquil waves foaming up upon a barren stretch of coastline. Great guitar work, and with a melody evoking a measure of equanimity which settles feather soft. The harmonies are sumptuous too, mere soughing winds warm and tranquil with an undertow of peace and sweet dream. And that’s just the first track. “Fitting Coffin” comes off as a folkish affair lining my ears with wood smoke and nostalgia and a hint of Bob Marley.
The song “Clive Wearing” is a darkly beautiful song based on the real life story about a man with no memory. In the hands of Malcanisten the song becomes weighted with human flesh riddled with feeling and tugging emotion.
On the fourth track “Swans” the song is anchored by heavier vocals, perhaps to keep the song earthbound and within earshot. Again, the continuation of sweetness and light unfurls further as Sjaak Kassies and company weave a storyboard tapestry streaked with muted pastels and heartwarming meaning.
The final track “Prophets” exudes a bit of “hedgerow orations,” perhaps even a cautionary tale espousing astute spirituality (a remembrance of the old ways, etc. if you will) over moral frivolity. All in all, these are sobering songs displaying a beautiful darkness, they are bare, and they stare into the void of one’s ear, resonating like cathedral bells. Peace.