Rating 9/10 – EXCELLENT Album
In the landscape of modern music, where the quest for something genuinely refreshing seems endless, Sam Evian’s latest offering, Plunge, emerges as a beacon of innovation and heartfelt artistry. With this album, Evian doesn’t just tread water in the vast ocean of sound; he dives deep, exploring the undercurrents of his musical identity and surfacing with treasures that are both introspective and universal.
Recorded amidst the serene backdrop of upstate New York, during days filled with the stark beauty of winter and the ritual of cold plunges in a creek, Plunge is an album that resonates with the authenticity of its creation process. It’s as if the chill of those waters seeped into Evian’s veins, invigorating his music with a clarity and depth that surpasses his previous works. This is Evian not just as a musician but as an alchemist, turning the raw elements of his surroundings and experiences into sonic gold. Check out “Rollin’ In” below:
Plunge is characterized by its rich, multifaceted soundscapes that blend the familiar warmth of ’70s grooves with daring forays into new sonic territories. Evian’s evolution is most notable in his vocal performance, where he moves beyond the soft, ethereal delivery of his earlier works into a realm of more full-throated expression. This newfound vocal strength is matched by the robustness of the guitars and percussion, creating tracks that are as compelling as they are emotive.
Yet, it’s not just the sound but the soul of the album that captivates. Inspired by the complexities of his parents’ relationship, Evian delves into themes of love, loss, and the cyclical nature of life. His lyrics, always poignant, reach new heights of introspection and vulnerability, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys through the highs and lows of human connection.
The album’s opener, “Wild Days,” sets the tone with its spirited groove and melodic verve, while tracks like “Why Does it Take So Long?” featuring a standout guitar solo from Big Thief’s Adrienne Lenker, showcase Evian’s ability to blend raw emotion with exquisite musicianship. Whether it’s the driving energy of “Another Way” or the introspective beauty of “Rollin’ In,” each track on Plunge stands as a testament to Evian’s artistry and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of his sound.
With Plunge, Sam Evian has not only expanded his musical landscape but has also invited us into a world rich with emotion, complexity, and sonic beauty. It’s a world where each note and lyric is infused with the authenticity of experience and the courage to explore the unknown depths of one’s artistry. In a musical era often marked by the ephemeral, Evian offers something that lingers long after the last note has faded—a reminder of the transformative power of music to touch our lives and reveal the depths of our own inner worlds.