Ciaran Smith also known as Crayonsmith is back with another shot at capturing the public’s imagination with his deftly crafted blend of indie pop. After making a noticeable splash with his excellent debut ‘Stay Loose’, he is now looking to make that next leap forward. And if this album gets the attention that it deserves then the multi-instrumentalist will surely morph into this year’s most unlikely star names.
In contrast to this, all of the evidence is perfectly laid out to suggest that Smith is ready for more exposure. He has the crooning track (The Boat) to win the lo-fi crowd over, the upbeat radio-friendly hit (16 Going On 63), the floor-filler (Lost in the Forest), and a lot more in between that have the ability to continually delight the listener.
One of the most consistent things on this second album from Smith is the element of surprise. Every time you think that you have unlocked his rhythmic structure and attempt to predict what is coming next, he does something totally unexpected. That surprise factor ensures that you are engaged for the entire duration of the eleven tracks that bind this wonderful opus together. It also borrows heavily from a variation of genres that somehow combine for a wonderfully cohesive key of music that really shouldn’t work as there is so much going on.
With wiry guitars strutting amicably along with synths, and soft percussion complimenting the snippets of electronic beats, the soundtrack that lies beneath the duvet of impressive lyrics is a cosy one that demands you to take full advantage.
If you liked his first album, you will love this. If you are unaware of whom he is, then take the advice of this reviewer and pick up this release – it is simply too enjoyable not to be embraced by any music lover.
