A neglected talent produces a stunning mix of soft, resonant sounds. It serves as a precursor to remarkable achievements ahead.
Barney Keen could very well be the favorite musician of your favorite artist. With experience in some of London’s premier studios, he has been acknowledged by a diverse group of renowned songwriters. While he has collaborated extensively with Kae Tempest, he has also honed his own instincts and unique approach to songwriting. His debut album, ‘Harbinger,’ is light, vibrant, and filled with spiritually uplifting rhythms, marking a delightful and unexpected entry from a talent who has long been overlooked.
Given his connections to artists in both Brazil and Portugal, it’s no surprise that ‘Harbinger’ conveys an airy atmosphere. This project is truly a labor of love, showcasing a bossa nova brightness within his musical style, while incorporating a jazz-like sense of freedom.
The standout tracks come swiftly. The opener, ‘Double Bind,’ possesses a subtle intensity that unravels contemplatively. ‘Shallow Light’ features a repetitive guitar melody that creates a psychedelic, vibrant celebration of sound.
Overall, the album is cohesively structured. Primarily self-produced with contributions from a few friends and his brother, Nathaniel Keen, at a studio in Camberwell, ‘Harbinger’ has a well-defined character. ‘Why Solo’ offers a downtempo rock feel, while the sweeping strings in ‘4th May’ evoke a classic Hollywood ambiance.
Occasionally, you might detect influences from contemporaries like Tom Misch or Nick Hakim in his work, but it also resonates with older influences. The after-hours jazz-folk sound of John Martyn subtly underlies the music, while the title track carries the essence of Talk Talk’s more experimental later years.
However, Barney Keen’s artistry goes beyond mere references. The album stands out for its originality and unique quirks. ‘Harbinger’ is a beautiful collection of smooth, resonant sounds, hinting at impressive accomplishments to come.
8/10
Words: Robin Murray
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Barney Keen could easily be the favorite musician of your favorite musician. He has been involved with some of the best studios in London and has been referenced by an