Heidi Harris - Sand In The Line

Heidi Harris – Sand In The Line

Posted On: March 5, 2011
Posted In: Adam Williams, Christen Napier, Cutleri, Heidi Harris, Heidi Harris - Sand In The Line, Jessie Shaffer, Olds Sleeper, Sand In The Line
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Sand In The Line is the latest full length release from Brooklyn, New York based singer-songwriter and visual artist Heidi Harris, who is also a member of the experimental chamber folk trio Cutleri.,,

The album opens with the upbeat Strum, a song featuring carefree singing and acoustic guitar played in the laid-back, almost lazy manner exclusive to those with a natural talent for the instrument. At various times throughout Sand In The Line, Harris is joined by flute, lap harp, field recordings and other discrete backing instruments, making use of natural reverb and singing partners also.

Lullaby Tones is noteworthy for its pairing of abstract vocal harmonies with delicate instrumentation and the sounds of an infant child. The title track also impresses with powerful, dynamic vocals offset by field recordings. Vocals are not always present however and on Naptime In A Foxhole for example, Harris concentrates on creating just over four minutes of charming experimentation, without choosing to sing. Though the music here can be categorised as folk, Harris also echos hints of blues legends such as Son House in addition to more abstract influences. Perhaps due in part to these wide influences, one is treated to a remarkable depth and variety of sound. The artist appears to embrace a simple DIY method of recording, in a comparable manner to PJ Harvey’s 4-track demos or Will Oldham’s earliest works. The music suits this stripped down method of capturing sound and rather than being found wanting in any way, the artist is revealed as a real talent.

Sand In The Line may perhaps appear conventional on paper but this belies Harris’ unique spirit which pervades each song. The album is an intimate and personal work from an artist with a sincere passion for experimentation, never coasting on one idea for too long.

Released 11th February, Sand In The Line is available from the Heidi Harris BandCamp page.

- Review by Adam Williams for Fluid Radio

www.heidiharris.bandcamp.com
www.myspace.com/heidiharris

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