AWmusic

Folk rock is a tough thing, I find it easy to like or dislike right off the bat since everything is at face value when it comes to the music. That being said, I liked Peasant’s work almost immediately. DeRose has a nice soothing voice who can write a short folk pop song.

On “Impeccable Manners”, Peasant sings that he’s a “man of impeccable manners, lived all my life and never broke the law” while stating “I’m not sure if this makes any sense” hinting that while I would find a man of impeccable manners boring, he does too. Peasant maintains this humility on “Not Your Savior”. On this record, knows where he’s at, he doesn’t overdo on any level and uses his strengths in his singing and songwriting. While some songs are a bit short, he rarely disappoints.

I can’t really pick and choose which song is “the best” but all songs are good if not great . While I don’t have much to say other then Peasant having an amazing voice that is a little weather beaten but unlike many other artists he’ll be compared to (Bon Iver and Iron and Wine) he has a much sweeter voice with the songwriting that could melt your heart.

Lo-fi or as a minimalist Peasant, brings out the most of songs and after repeated listens I have to say this album IS comparable to the Bon Iver and Iron & Wine when it comes to folk indie. While I am getting carried away with the comparisons, he does experiment with his singing and different types of guitar melodies, giving each song a fresh sound. I’m ultimately entertained all the way throughout.

Rating: 4.75 out of 5
When comparing to For Emma, Forever Ago, I like On The Ground better. Granted both are bit apples and oranges in terms of folk rock, Damien DeRose has made a lovely record that I hope you pick up. I’m going to stop writing this review before I give it a 5….

On The Ground by Peasant
Not Your Savior by Peasant
Impeccable Manners by Peasant

Tags: album