Trappist Afterland’s "Walk to Paradise Garden" – A Heartfelt Folk Album
Australian folk ensemble Trappist Afterland delivers a deeply moving and introspective journey with their 10th studio album, Walk to Paradise Garden. Based in Adelaide, the band, led by the visionary songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Adam Cole, explores themes of love, loss, healing, and resilience across nine intricately crafted tracks. With collaborations from musical talents like UK guitar maestro Henry Parker, traditional folk sensation Angeline Morrison, and avant-garde luminary David Tibet (Current 93), the album masterfully merges timeless folk elements with poignant storytelling.
Walk to Paradise Garden is more than just an album; it’s a cathartic reflection on life’s impermanence and the beauty of human connection. Written during a tumultuous time in Cole’s life, marked by his mother’s decline into dementia, the breakdown of his marriage, and his subsequent return to his hometown—the album resonates with vulnerability and hope. Cole’s experiences inform each track, weaving a narrative that celebrates life's fleeting moments while acknowledging the pain and growth that accompany them.
Tracks like "The Squall" and "Give Thanks and Lament" capture the bittersweet balance of gratitude and sorrow, with haunting melodies and poetic lyrics that linger long after the music fades. The minimalist yet evocative instrumentation draws listeners into Cole’s world, creating an intimate connection that feels both personal and universal.
The album’s rich soundscape is a testament to Trappist Afterland’s mastery of folk traditions. Acoustic guitars, layered harmonies, and subtle percussive elements dominate the arrangements, but it’s the collaborative spirit that elevates this work to something truly special. Henry Parker’s dexterous guitar work adds depth and texture to tracks like "Barefoot in Thistles", while Angeline Morrison’s ethereal voice complements the introspective tone of "You Are Evergreen".
David Tibet’s haunting contributions to "Cruciform-Reincarnation of Kelly-Anne" and Tali Trow’s multi-instrumental prowess ensure that each song is a self-contained world, brimming with emotion and character. The production is intentionally sparse yet profoundly atmospheric, capturing the raw essence of Cole’s songwriting.
Walk to Paradise Garden is an album about resilience and renewal. The title track, "Green St Return", is a poignant meditation on returning to one’s roots, both literally and metaphorically. Its gentle melodies and reflective lyrics encapsulate the album’s overarching message: that even in the face of life’s darkest moments, there is always the possibility of growth and new beginnings.
Other standout tracks like "Incarnation Blues" delve into existential questions with a philosophical lens, offering listeners a space for contemplation. The closing track, "You Are Evergreen", ties the album together with a hopeful and uplifting tone, celebrating the enduring power of love and memory.
What sets Walk to Paradise Garden apart is its ability to transcend time and trends. The album feels both rooted in the traditions of folk music and refreshingly original, blending influences from classic British folk to contemporary experimental sounds. This duality makes it accessible to both traditionalists and modern listeners alike.
Paul Skeers of The Pleroma aptly describes the album as a celebration of “sucking the marrow out of life.” Indeed, Walk to Paradise Garden embraces life’s complexities with open arms, offering a deeply human experience that is as rewarding as it is challenging.
Walk to Paradise Garden is a triumph for Trappist Afterland, showcasing the band at their most introspective and artistically ambitious. It’s an album that invites listeners to slow down, reflect, and connect with the beauty and fragility of life. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Trappist Afterland’s music, this album is a must-listen, a timeless work of art that will resonate for years to come.
With its heartfelt storytelling, exquisite musicianship, and universal themes, Walk to Paradise Garden is not just an album but a testament to the enduring power of folk music to heal and inspire.
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