Review
Maia here, ready to share some thoughts on a truly captivating release. Bess Atwell's 2021 album, "Already, Always," arrives like a quiet garden of sound, where every note blossoms with an almost tender intimacy. It feels akin to stepping into a hushed conversation, a deep self-dialogue where vulnerability lays itself bare, exploring the fragile threads of human connection, growth, and the tender ache of loss. Within its gentle embrace, tracks like "Co-op" and "Nobody" masterfully intertwine moments of quiet sorrow with comforting warmth, painting a vibrant portrait of inner journeys. This collection offers a reflective passage through emotional currents, balancing a delicate touch with an underlying current of resilience.
The very breath of "Already, Always" is drawn from its soft, acoustic heart, allowing each chord and whispered harmony to echo the sincere confessions held within. Its sound unfurls like a mist over a quiet field, creating an atmosphere both stirring and wonderfully melancholic across its compact thirty-five minutes. Released into the world by Lucy Rose's Real Kind Records, this particular record has found a cherished space, even gracing the airwaves of BBC 6 Music, truly marking its presence as a remarkable British alt-folk offering. Each delicate arrangement thoughtfully guides the listener along a path of quiet contemplation. - Maia
