Half Moon Run Take Us On A Seamless Journey With “Inwards & Onwards”
Half Moon Run have long been dominating the Canadian indie scene, but they’re proving that the best is yet to come with their latest EP release “Inwards & Onwards”. A seamless journey you could mistake as the passage to heaven, this EP bleeds pure bliss.
"Sometimes limitations can provide a platform for productive creativity," notes Devon on behalf of the band. "In this case, the limitations of living in a pandemic prompted us to record and mix all of the music for the first time using only our own abilities. Attempting to keep the process simple and enjoyable, we shied away from over-production and leaned into spontaneity and happy accidents."
The EP kicks off with the recently released track “How Come My Body”, which perfectly sets the tone for the entire six tracks. The song is an exhibition of soft melodic vocal layers and masterful slow built percussion, together crafting a tranquil dream-like sonic space.
About “How Come My Body”, lead vocalist Devon shares, “I remember feeling confused and uncomfortable as a 20-year-old, and I find myself feeling sympathy for that younger version of myself now. I also feel sympathy and concern for people living through that metamorphosis between adolescence and adulthood in the modern world.”
Moving on to the EP’s second piece we hear the feature track ”On & On”, a peaceful slow burner that sinks its teeth right into folk-rooted instrumentation and melodies. A soulful thought-provoking piece, the band describes the track as a "contemplation on humanity’s place among the stars."
“Fucksgiving” takes on a sombre tone, draped in emotionally strained vocals, the track stands in protest with the cultural insensitivity of the holiday. A statement piece, this track is strong, burly and full of power in every sense of the word.
“Tiny” channels the vintage rock and roll that could be taken right out of its prime era, while still remaining soaked in the indie-folk flow of the EP.
Coming towards the EP’s close, “Nosebleeds” is a reminder of the raw excellence brought by self-production and reinforced by the echoes of acoustic instruments. Complete with the enchanting hums of a harmonica that call to folks partner - country.
The EP’s finale “It’s True” calls for a more gothic mood, beginning at a slow pace the track ends in an epic cinematic performance, backed by echoes and screams. Talk about ending on a high note! This album is a faultless example of well-planned production, pure talent and glowing excellence.
