Another Sky - Music For Winter Vol. 1

Another Sky shone on August’s debut full-length ‘I Slept On the Floor’. And inspired by lockdown isolation, ‘Music For Winter Vol. 1’ feels more like a supplement to that record than an attempt to usher anything radically new into their sweeping sound. Where cuts like ‘Fell In Love With the City’ burnt with warmth and optimism, this EP does well to reflect the numbness of winter via sparse arrangements and nakedly earnest, poetic lyrics. ‘Pieces’ is a strong opener, a collaborative effort between vocalist Catrin Vincent and bassist Naomi Le Dune as the latter wrestles with her experiences of conflicting sexuality and religion. It’s a slow builder - something this band are dab hands at - and its crescendo swims in catharsis. ‘Sun Seeker’ also ranks among the group’s best to date, an intimate ebb and flow that pairs orchestral elements with Jack Gilbert’s crisp guitar tones for gorgeous results. Another Sky have showcased their aptitude for minimal, ambient songwriting on numerous past projects, and that’s why this EP drifts a little in the second half. For any other band, ‘Leaving the Lighthouse’ or ‘It Keeps Coming’ would be promising cuts, but with ‘I Slept…’ Another Sky set themselves a high bar and here their tranquil efforts, overshadowed by the more upbeat ones, feel repetitive and plain. Ultimately, expressing bleakness in a way that is itself engaging is not an easy feat, and this EP is a commendable attempt. ‘Volume 2’ is to be looked forward to.