I’m not usually a huge fan of band name changes; however, if you’re going to make things more overtly Scottish, and herald the change with a new EP featuring some really rather beautiful artwork, then I’m willing to make an exception.
Formerly known as Akela, Ben Mhòr is the musical brainchild of Glasgow based multi-instrumentalist Ben Gracie, who, along with some talented collaborators, aims to meld Scottish indie alt-folk stylings with modern production.
Seeds, the second EP from Gracie, following previously released Strange Lands, displays the singer’s considerable talents as a lyricist and musician, as well as evidencing a canny knack for persuasive branding.
Opening track ‘Keep Looking Up’ begins with drawling guitar slides and a minimal recurring riff, before Gracie’s well considered vocal, and a hooky percussionist beat add texture and depth.
Barely pausing for breath, the band segue into ‘Adrift’ and it is hard to discern where one song ends and another begins.
Building on previously introduced lyrical and instrumental repetitions, ‘Adrift’ is upbeat and buoyantly childlike thanks to Gracie’s uncontrived vocal style.
Title track ‘Seeds’ draws the record together with ambient instrumentals and production, a considered, slow burner of a track.
While this record cannot be faulted in terms of quality or effort, there remains scope for development and the broadening of musical and vocal range.
Words: Kat McNicol
