Tendrils by Halcyon Phase
Halcyon Phase
„Tendrils“
CD. 2021. Folk, Rock.
Why did I find it harder to connect with the debut album from Halcyon Phase, consisting of singer/songwriter Frank Smith and multi-instrumentalist Philip Victor Bova? Especially since I love the tranquil album "Maps – Burned Or Lost" by Sills & Smith so much? Nothing else worked, so I forced myself to listen to "Tendrils" more often and with greater concentration. And I discovered that for me, the magic always begins when the linguistic beauty of Frank's lyrics merges with the music. "Tendrils" was created during the pandemic—can I hear that? No, a huge compliment to everyone involved!
Grace Smith's beautifully designed artwork runs throughout the entire CD. A hint to lovers of vinyl beauties, because CDs can also look quite good on the shelf.
Tendrils kicks off with "Emergency," and it's not just Trump they're targeting. It's a decidedly political, rock-infused song. Anyone expecting more of the same should prepare themselves for significantly less rock and politics. What initially sounds like "typical" folk-rock is perfectly and delicately performed, as in "The Rain." A beautiful song, featuring Rebecca Campbell. "Death On A Platter" returns to a rock sound, with vintage charm. "More Than Life Itself" is my personal favorite, as I think it has progressive elements. At first, I found the music interchangeable, but the more I listen to Tendrils, the more I appreciate the effort, the multitude of instruments, and their expert handling—there's nothing interchangeable about it.
So what do I really think? Tendrils is an album that exudes a calm atmosphere. Technically, there's not a single flaw to be found in the entire production. Tendrils has reminded me once again that albums deserve not just one, but several listens. And it reminds me to simply listen. Very important, especially these days.
Credits
Backing Vocals, Harmony Vocals – Rebecca Campbell
Cajón, Congas, Percussion [Handpan], Percussion [Cristal Baschet], Bass Harmonica, Drone [Shruti Box], Shaker, Cabasa [Afuche], Cymbal, Bell Tree, Waterphone – Jesse Stewart
Cello – Margaret Maria
Electric Bass, Keyboards, Tambourine, Strings [Arrangements], Music By, Producer, Recorded By, Mixed By, Mastered By – Phillip Victor Bova
Electric Guitar, Lead Guitar, Slide Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Piano, Synthesizer, Organ [Wurlitzer], Organ [Hammond] – John Fraser Findlay
Lead Vocals, Words By, Music By – Frank Smith
Piano, Accordion, Organ [Wurlitzer], Organ [Organetta], Synthesizer, Harpsichord, Theremin – Marianne Dumas
Rhythm Guitar, Lead Guitar, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, 12-String Acoustic Guitar – Blair Michael Hogan
Violin, Fiddle – James Stephens
The photos are all from my LP. The rights to all motifs, logos, texts and fonts that can be seen in the photos are of course owned by the copyright holder.
No AI was used in the making of this Review.
©17.August.2026
