David Arn – Walking to Dreamland
David Arn – Walking to Dreamland
Multi-talented singer-songwriter David Arn is plowing a row for himself as an independent artist in a field where having a unique and distinctive sound is becoming increasingly uncommon. Just listen to the Radio? A talented songwriter, Arn also plays guitar, organ and piano. His vocals blend naturally with the rich instrumentation and the songs are imbued with a classic feel reminiscent of new folk favorites Blitzen Trapper, Iron and Wine, or even some of the folksier songs from The Shins to Pink Floyd Lyrics inspired by ordinary experiences, nature, and an adventurous spirit round out Arn’s new album “Walking to Dreamland” released in 2014.
This is his sophomore effort, and on “Walking to Dreamland” Arn delivers what I can only describe as mood music – the good, bad and ugly of it all. It has flavorings of instrumental folk, pop, and an Americana blues feel, but, perhaps surprisingly the primary focus is stripped down acoustic pop-rock. Early tracks title track and “Better Off Today” has an elegant journeyman’s feel, becoming almost hypnotic in some places. The rock-folk-blues textures of Arn and his band are especially evocative. The whole album has a short but sweet structure, lending it more of straight folk-blues-rock feel, but it could hardly be called pop when it’s built around Arn and his guitar at the sonic center. Arn reminds me of and Tom Waits, Corey Crowder and Cry Cry Cry. While my favorite pieces “When You Lost Your Situation” and the title track are as smooth as cognac, some tracks have a particularly steady-thrumming bass line that adds firmness and tension “Real Time.” All songs are a glory-full return to folk-rock-singer sadcore-songwriter with a stuttering rhythm section underpinning some terrific work from all involved. This is a great pickup if you’re either in a mellow mood or looking to instill a more trippy-mellow one. Purchase Link below:
I-TUNES: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/david-arn/id412628363?ign-mpt=uo%3D4
While this is music you could work or play to, it’s most suited to simple contemplation. Its might just be the perfect CD to brighten up your day on those rainy days up there. Isn’t that something we could all use a little more of in our lives. Arn sets it – all to well. The Bottom Line: “Walking to Dreamland” from David Arn is well-suited for audiences that enjoy all the typical conventions of folk-pop-Americana and more. Even slight elements of singer/songwriter and bluesy mood music. Expect great things from Arn as his cult fan base gets established along the East coast. I feel there’s a disgruntled audience out there just waiting for him to arrive with open arms.
Listen to song samples – https://soundcloud.com/davidarn
Erik Sommers