Review
When the world quiets down and the midnight air becomes still, "Charcoal" by Brambles emerges as the perfect sonic companion for night-dwellers. Released in 2012 under the tender artistry of Mark Dawson, this debut invites listeners into delicate, serene terrains. Illumined by the soft glow of moonlight, these tracks cradle the listening ear with hauntingly beautiful arrangements huddled within the heart of "The Painted Palace," a communal home in Melbourne. With its blend of piano, strings, woodwinds, and field recordings, "Charcoal" crafts an audio journey that whispers to your nocturnal thoughts.
Awash with emotive precision, tracks like "To Speak Of Solitude" and "Such Owls As You" deliver an intricate symphony of serene piano melodies offset by intricate layers of saxophone. These pieces conjure the isolation and quiet splendor of a snow-blanketed landscape, evoking introspection atop their graceful notes. Just when you settle into the somber mood, "In The Androgynous Dark" sneaks in lore with its cold yet enamoring charm, holding a melody that transports you to frosty realms—even as optimistic timbres seep quietly in.
A real standout on the album, "Deep Corridor" spirals into a realm of shadowy, exploratory wonder, leading you into cavernous depths shrouded in mystery. As haunting frequencies wrap around you, the album reaches its introspective crescendo with the closing note of "Unsayable." This gentle lamenting tune plays like the flicker of dim candlelight on an old saloon upright piano, persuading quiet reflection. "Charcoal" takes the tranquil listener by the hand, weaving moments of solace that feel akin to wrapping yourself in the warmth of a night sky blanket—matter-of-factly designed for those moments when life slows and dreams unfurl with wide, solitary wings. - Hannah
