Album Review
Loud Harp is the duo of Asher Seevinck and Dave Wilton. Their self-titled debut brings together slowcore, acoustic post-rock and touches of alternative rock in a collection of original worship songs. It is a meditative record, with arrangements that give the music room to breathe. More than anything, the album's atmosphere is what draws me in.
The songs often place as much emphasis on mood as melody, and that approach works best when the music gradually opens up. You can easily find yourself lost in it. “Hide Me Away” is probably my favorite song here. It begins quietly, with the feel of a simple pop song, before growing into an atmospheric cry out to God. There is a sincerity to it that makes the modest arrangement feel like enough.
“Your Love Never Runs Out” is another highlight, carrying that same sense of devotion into a fuller, moving performance. Loud Harp does not seem interested in rushing toward a big chorus. The music has time to settle, and the best moments benefit from that patience. At times, though, I would welcome a little more variety. The gentle pace and repeated phrases can make some of the songs blend together, and the melodies do not always stay with me as strongly as the atmosphere does.
Still, this is a good debut with a few moments that make it worth seeking out. Loud Harp initially slipped under my radar, and I am glad I eventually found them. There is enough feeling in these songs to keep me interested in where they go from here.
