Based in Sweden, singer-songwriter James Augur fronts folk outfit A Choir of Ghosts. Debut album, An Ounce of Gold was three years in the making, bringing together a series of talented musicians to help form his choir. The end result is stunning, an eleven strong offering of melancholy alt-folk that transports the listener worlds away.
The uplifting title track is an absolute stand out, alongside recent single (and recent AU Review Track of the Day) “Sinner in Rapture”. “Better Off Alone” and “Water” linger long after their run-time is complete, and there’s a nice country influence to “Driving Home”.
This is a collection to lose yourself in; lyrically and musically mesmerising, it invites you to close your eyes and take a breath – exactly what so many of us need in these uncertain times.
The flow from track to track doesn’t always sit quite right, but other than that, there’s little to criticise here. And it really is a minor complaint, especially when the songs themselves are so strong, and when you’ve got Augur’s vocals bringing it all together. At once both gruff and tender, this is a voice destined to tell stories.
And, in a City And Colour meets medieval Highland romance sort of way, that’s exactly what An Ounce of Gold does. Ethereal yet epic, it’s an absolute dream to listen to, so grab a copy now!
FOUR AND A HALF STARS OUT OF FIVE
A Choir of Ghost’s An Ounce of Gold is out today – see the website for more info!
