Wildbirds & Peacedrums are a minimalist folk duo hailing from Sweden. The pair specialise in a brand of experimental folk that frankly won’t be for everyone, but is worth a listen nonetheless.
References to oceans, loneliness, and the innocence of childhood will either delight or sicken listeners whilst Mariam Wallentin’s sparse, accapella vocals are, for the majority of tracks, anchored by brushed drums and hand claps – laying in wait until the right moment to break free.
Magical moments such as the furious crashing drum beats on ‘Doubt/Hope’ which are accompanied Wallentin’s deep husky voice, and ‘The Window’s’ seeming tribute to southern soul anthems are few and far between, intersected by ambient, stark tracks that leave you feeling cold and under-whelmed.
Nevertheless, ‘Heartcore’ is a smoky, smouldering album, as Andreas Werliin’s mercurial drumming, propels this experimental yet strangely beguiling racket into uncharted musical territory.
- Bubblegum Lemonade - 18 August 2008
- The Sea Kings - 18 August 2008
- Moira Stewart - 18 August 2008