Released: May 2019
Label: Birs Recordings
Listen on Bandcamp
Harrison Clock is a really recent discovery for me, even though he has been making music for 30 years. I know little about him but he is from Michigan and this is a themed album based on Sherwood Anderson's novel of the same name.
The opening track 'Andersonville' is the perfect introduction. It is mostly instrumental and I actually found this so moving to listen to. It is also weirdly atmospheric and would easily fit in a movie. One of the most beautiful and unique pieces of music I have heard all year.
The sound of the album is largely Americana but there are more modern, indie rock vibes, especially evident in the song 'Trunion Row'. Its quite unusual and even has electronic beats but strangely doesn't sound out of place.
'An Awakening' is another highlight and sounds a little like Crosby, Stills & Nash. Its quite simple and pastoral but sang with a lot of emotion. Again, it is strangely moving.
'A Man of No Distinction' draws heavily from the novel and is one of the best songs. Many of the songs on here are character based but I don't think you need to have read the book to appreciate it.
This album is well worth a listen, especially for 'Andersonville' which is simply a beautiful song. Its hard to comprehend that something with so few words can be so powerful. I will be checking out a lot more from this artist.
