As the slow, sparse pulse of guitar emerges in the
opening seconds of ‘The Blues Easing’ it becomes clear that Slows Down, the
project of self-taught multi-instrumentalist Alexander Hawthorn is something a
little bit different. At first, Alex’s voice rasps heavily over the track
treading a circuitous path likened to that of Scott Kelly’s solo efforts – but
over the tracks’ 3.59 minutes, elements of sinuous aesthetics ascent
triumphantly. This sombre dynamic edges distinctively throughout the EP which
breathes with thick instrumentation expertly minimised to allow a truly shape
shifting amorphousness. ‘In My Room’ is the standout track here which plummets
into vertices of extraordinary contemporary classical music and 60’s clanging
guitars that wouldn’t sound amiss on early Walker Brothers’ albums. While this
may seem like an odd pairing, EP closer ‘The Way Down Leering’ cements the
intelligent fusion of styles and Alexander is to be commended for the
distinctive transition that seems intent on pushing expectations.
The EP is the starting point of a continuing project and
plans for a long player are in the pipeline. This is certainly one to keep an
eye out for.
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