Conchúr White has long been a cherished part of the Northern Irish music scene. Whether that was fronting Silences or stepping out as a solo performer, many were convinced he could go far. It was really no surprise that a label of Bella Union’s stature came calling.
The outcome of White and Bella Union’s partnership is Swirling Violets, an ambitious debut album. Highly introspective in nature, the record is one of breath-taking quality that floats somewhere between indie folk and dreamy Americana.
The record is naturally underpinned by White’s striking vocal range that has an aching quality that drives home the passion of the Armagh native. ‘Rivers’ is a perfect example of this, with the simple picking of the guitar letting his magnetic vocals shine.
It is a record without a conscious theme yet it doesn’t suffer for it. The stunning ‘501s’ tells of childhood infatuation and taps into the deep wells of nostalgia; ‘Righteous (Why Did I Feel Like That?’ takes in blind faith and fundamentalism while ‘I Did Good Today’ sees him search for validation.
With all the singles coming from the first half, there is an argument that the album is a little front loaded but a closer listen dispels these notions. ‘Red House Parlour’ is bold and richly textured while ‘Before Ten’ (an old Silences favourite) is laced with interesting electronic flushes and ‘Fawn’ is a rich pop track that is better than the output of most other singer songwriters adored by commercial radio.
Yet the track that stands out again and again is the opener. ‘The Holy Death’ is bold and unexpected; quietly captivating to begin with, the arrangement is soon fleshed out and sprinkled with percussion. Two minutes in things unexpectedly change with Conchúr’s vocals letting lose and developing a real sense of urgency before normal service resumes.
Swirling Violets is a triumph and undoubtedly an early contender for record of the year. Incredible to think this is his debut full length release. Beautifully crafted, the record is easy to enjoy but contains plenty of intriguing layers and depth to keep listeners returning for more. It will be difficult for White to top this.
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