Review: Mark Nelsen - Homeward EP

One of the unexpected joys of writing a blog is the breadth of material that artists send / link to be reviewed; there is nothing better than hearing music that would otherwise fall beneath my radar. Homeward is a classic case in point.

Mark Nelsen is a native San Francisco based solo artist who also plays guitar/lead vocals in heavy psychedelic power trio, Electric Shepherd. Nelsen's "Homeward" solo EP was recorded and produced by Greg Ashley (Gris Gris / Mirrors) at the Creamery analog-tape studio. Nelsen also leads a new indie-rock/fuzz rock band, Mark Nelsen & The Mutiny - which also serves as a live band for his heavier solo material.

The Homeward EP was designed and plays as a mini concept piece, a "reflection on finding a new home" to quote the man himself, and is a delightful collection of different moods and textures. The title track was designed to be heard soundtracking the video, although it captures more the atmosphere of an arthouse film than a standard music video. The video was directed by Andrew Herwitz who interpreted the music with a respectful sensitivity to great effect. The track itself is a moody. elegiac piece with Nelsen's emotional voice effective over reverb soaked guitar. It builds in intensity until a guitar solo kicks in with some ominous crashing of cymbals, climaxing with an emotional farewell being bidden.

'Before Us' is a more pastoral affair, a track that evokes Nelsen's San Francisco but of some 40 years ago, some lovely classical acoustic guitar giving it a sunny air. After the first two tracks, 'Penultimate' comes as a real surprise; an instrumental with kraut synth drones and keyboards that would not feel amiss soundtracking a John Carpenter from the 1970s. 'Celebration' is an out-and-out feelgood song with acoustic guitar, electric piano and heartfelt lyrics- this is the most 'pop' song on the EP. 'In the Throes of Elegance' is more shoegaze/dreampop territory. It's shimmering guitars and muted vocals are reminiscent of 4AD's early output, which is a very good thing.

This a gem of a release - full of unexpected treasures and accomplished musicality. Nelsen has achieved the difficult of releasing a record full of different styles, and succeeds with all. Top notch stuff.



Links:

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