This is a TGEFM reader-submitted review. It may have been edited for content, spelling, or grammar but otherwise reflects the thoughts and opinions of the submitter.
Review by Th.E. Boyd
Rude Records – 18 Feb 2022
OA Will Away’s image-driven “Stew” is pure poetry
If you’re looking for a light yet full sound with plenty of depth, A Will Away’s new album “Stew” might be for you. Released on 18 Feb 2022, this album’s poetic lyrics provide plenty of imagery that tie into its themes. Matthew Carlson’s beautifully layered vocals evoke plenty of emotion and take us on a ride down life’s cumbersome trail.
I wouldn’t call this a “concept album”, but it definitely feels like a walk through the story of someone’s complicated times by means of artistic storytelling. The overall theme of reflecting on life through the skewed lens of nostalgia adds complications that we can all relate to. The album’s Bandcamp page even references “grief, celebration, shame, [and] elation” as staples in life’s journey while we navigate and ruminate on “a simpler time (that probably never existed)”. The backdrop to this album is certainly something I can appreciate.
The second track on “Stew”, “Karma”, is a bright, poppy song with lyrical metaphors that make you think twice about that bright, poppy sound. The chorus-like vocal harmonies when Carlson hits the “cold karma” lyrics at the beginning of the pre-chorus make this song a spirited journey. The vocals continue to swell, and the song’s sound gets bigger and bigger. However, just when you think you know what to expect from “Karma”, an overfed and boxy guitar solo comes out of left field. Overall, this is a great song that’s going on a couple of my playlists.
The next few songs lull you into a nice acoustic space of comfort without becoming stale. For me, “Hereditary” is a turning point on “Stew”. With a well-executed scream at the end of the song, it snaps the listener back to the reality of the not-always-so-pleasant themes of the album. This is well-timed because it comes just before the super catchy seventh track, “Re-Up”, which introduces a new level of energy and reignites the dynamic vocal performance that could almost be taken for granted across the duration of the album.
All in all, “Stew” is a well-articulated, well-constructed, and well-performed album that soothes the listener while making them think about larger elements of life and encourages critical reflection. The lyrics are engaging, the vocals are very impressive, and the musicianship is on point. If you aren’t into smooth acoustic instrumentation and lyrics that will pull emotions out, you may only want to check out the couple of songs that I highlighted. However, if you’re looking for an album with thematic depth that explores (and encourages exploration of) the vast experiences that make us who we are, you’ve found a pristine example with “Stew”.
