Jacob Metcalf, Fjord

Jacob Metcalf

Fjord

Reviewed by: Adelie Salagnac

Also known as being part of the bands The Fox & the Bird and Dallas Family Band, Jacob Metcalf has always been ambitious. After many detours along the road, he is finally releasing his first solo album, Fjord, a decade after starting thinking about it. Ten years of work that prove themselves to be worth it, considering the quality and the depth of his new tunes.

Talented singer, songwriter, composer, guitarist, banjo or other various original instrument player, Texan Jacob Metcalf poured his soul into a subtle, graceful and cohesive record, that should be setting a new standard for any upcoming folk band. One cannot help but feel completely absorbed by Fjord, from beginning to end, through beautifully written songs that lightly warms the soul, like a reassuring candle in the night. Metcalf got personal and delivered an intimate, dreamlike record that proves his wonderful storytelling skills, providing a soundtrack to his life.

What strikes me the most with Jacob Metcalf’s work is the comforting familiarity that emanates from the songs. Yet Fjord never sounds like a pale, copy, imitation, or reproduction of any work, but more like a truthful, honest, and genuine rendition of Metcalf’s vision of cinematic-folk. Including rich yet simple and effective arrangements that involve cellos, violins, horns, each and every song off the album are beautiful, both on a lyrical and a musical level: Jacob Metcalf’s craftsmanship cannot be disputed. He knows what he is doing and he is doing it well. If you asked me, I would say that Jacob Metcalf will be heard, far and wide.

Fjord can probably speak to a lot of people, on many levels. I found it impossible to set my mind on a potential favorite song from the album, as picking just one would have been a hurtful insult to the ten other, more-than-just well-crafted folk tunes.

A record that brings your mind a peace, unlike any other.

Rating: Bad-Ass