Old Fire — Songs From The Haunted South

Born from an album concept for a 4AD project Songs From Trhe Haunted South was originally intended to feature different singers and musicians recording songs that were both covers and originals. Old Fire features a myriad of exceptional musicians including DM Stith - piano and guitar, Christopher Barnes (Gem Club) - Piano, Warren Defever (His Name Is Alive) - Guitar, Thor Harris (Swans) - Drums, Christian Madden - Rhodes piano & Organ and Semay Wu -Cello.

The 13 track album contains a selection of songs that in one way or another are dedications to people, some dead and some still living. Musically, inspirations range from ambient artists such as Brian Eno and Stars of the Lid to Psychedelic Rock, traditional Country and early 4AD.  As well the original Old Fire compositions there are a selection of intriguing cover versions of music by the likes of Psychic TV, Low , Ian William Craig, Jason Molina, Camberwell and Shearwater.

Songs From The Haunted South is hark back to the halycon days of 4AD, its reverb drench, mournful and ever so slightly dark. This is This Mortal Coil in a modern guise. Laphams take on the cover version is as splendid as his originals, and each meld into each other with perfect precision.

I can honestly say I’m lost in the album. I’m a fan of the original 4AD, having collected a lot of the releases when they were first issued. I have dipped my toe in the modern waters of 4ad’s releases, but not found much there to inspire me. However, this release is wonderful and although original founder of the label, Ivo Watts Russell, wasn’t involved with it barring a meeting it bears all his hallmarks.

If you even have a passing interest in This Mortal Coil or 80-90’s 4AD you will fall in love with this album. If you want to listen to beautifully crafted songs you will fall in love with this album. If you have a soul you will fall in love with this album.Stunning.