Life on a Shelf is the charming new album from Boston-based artist Sal Weston. A splendidly eclectic manufacturing exhibits all through, from the saxophone-touched sophisti-pop of “Pixel Lights” and the dreamy synth/guitar interaction inside “Calm Down” to the concluding “Lovely Colours,” the place a hazy country-folk emotion lingers as vocals ache “I don’t wanna really feel this fashion no extra.” Stirring lyricism often enhances the instrumentation, that includes musicians from all over the world — together with “full brass from mates in Italy and Spain, and drums contributed by a buddy in South Africa,” per Weston.
A folk-set retrospection enamors on the opening “Intro (Life on a Shelf),” the place reminiscing on summer season nights and pondering a way of belonging — “the place will we belong?” — resonates amidst lush acoustic layers. Weston’s vocal rise thereafter proves riveting; the observe commences the album with an inviting quaintness, although additionally a closely emotive attraction and concluding vocal ardency — enjoyably indicative of the dynamics that present all through the discharge.
“Imposter within the Hills!” ensues with a extra vibrant entrancement, venturing from twangy guitars into organ-laden illumination and harmonious vocal heat. The album persistently excels in its introspective lyrical prowess, and “Imposter within the Hills!” is especially indicative of such. “I’m below the waves, drifting endlessly,” Weston sings throughout an pleasant ascent, conveying a way of private strife as one strives to push previous self-doubt. “Have you ever discovered the peace you needed, or do you dream of it as an alternative?” he lets out, artfully capturing the sensation of “working in place” in attempting to traverse from inner-conflict to inner-peace.
One other standout, “Pixel Lights” embraces a gorgeously synth-infused radiance — melding with bouncy piano and tender guitar tones for a incredible manufacturing. Saxophone work on this observe and the next “Really feel Proper” are significantly magnetic, with the latter compelling with its free-flowing Destroyer-esque feelings. In the meantime, “Pixel Lights” incorporates it with a smoother, sensual late-night temper — match for the funk-touched pop sensibilities that encompass it. “We scrolled via the times, and swapped via the nights,” Weston’s vocals let loose, reflecting on regrets with complacency and infatuation with the “pixel lights” as an alternative of actuality.
A serenely enchanting success that encourages to “take a breath, my buddy” amidst chaos, “Calm Down” envelops in its comforting thematic maintain and melodic fusing of playful synths and twangy guitars. “When the troubles of the day weigh heavy in your thoughts, and you may’t discover relaxation as a result of your head’s a large number,” Weston establishes that relatable state of stress, pushing towards a jangly pop radiance and hopeful private launch. Life on a Shelf enthralls with its mix of heartfelt lyricism and melodic productions, leading to a standout general success from Sal Weston.