Dead, Dead Swans is the brainchild of Milwaukee-based singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist John E. Swan. In October of last year, the artist enlisted the help of fellow Milwaukee musicians to produce a groundbreaking debut album that leans into alternative folk, Americana, and country sounds. Simply entitled ‘Lenses’, it’s an album that was largely recorded in John’s home studio, yet many elements were birthed elsewhere. “In several instances, the musicians on this record had never even met one another,” says John. To me, that’s what makes ‘Lenses’ so extraordinary. Not a million years would you believe that there was such a “distance” between the artists when they were creating these eleven outstanding tunes.
‘Wait Up’ gets the album underway with a beautifully rolling acoustic guitar and Swan’s heartfelt, impassioned vocals. We are then introduced to a sweetly plucked banjo and the delicate accordion playing of Michael Strike. It’s the perfect setup for what’s to come.
‘Advice’ and ‘Water’s Muddy’ were another two tracks that instantly resonated and hit home for me. There is pure poetry in the music of Dead, Dead Swans, and it’s rare to find a portrayal of loss and grief that is quite as honest and sincere as what ‘Lenses’ offers up. Bravo!
Serious album alert! Enjoy ‘Lenses’ on Spotify now:
