“Hide” by Amateur Ornithologist A Sonic Tapestry of Nature and Myth

Embark on a musical odyssey with Amateur Ornithologist’s latest offering, “Hide,” the album was released on January 19, 2024. Led by the visionary Daniel Clifford, the band unveils a lush and intricate soundscape that weaves through folk, new wave, and prog influences. Amateur Ornithologist invites listeners into a realm where the urban meets the natural, and the mundane intertwines with the supernatural. Each track on “Hide” is a chapter in a sonic adventure, exploring themes of pre-death autopsies, mythic ley-lines, and time-altering natural disasters.

The journey commences with “If It Looks Like Magic,” a gothic post-punk exploration inspired by the Cottingley Fairies. This track introduces us to the band’s ability to seamlessly blend haunting melodies with compelling narratives. Following is “The Word is Love,” an acoustic Latin backdrop featuring call-and-response vocals. This song delves into matters of the heart against a backdrop of dreamy synths and intricate musicality. “Time To Talk,” the third single, navigates the complexities of modern communication. Sharp key and time changes, jerky rhythms, and squealing saxophone paint a vivid picture of the challenges we face in connecting with one another.

“Venetian Blinds” unfolds as a kitchen-sink drama set against a viola-led folk horror soundtrack. The intertwining of elements creates a unique listening experience, showcasing the band’s versatility. The dreamy “Forgotten Schemes” floats around a psychedelic waltz, with ethereal synths enhancing the overall psychedelic atmosphere. This track demonstrates the band’s ability to craft immersive sonic landscapes. Opening with field recordings, orchestral folk, and art rock, “A Hidden Path” encapsulates the essence of “Hide” in just four minutes. The song is a testament to the band’s dedication to pushing musical boundaries. Amateur Ornithologist’s musical ensemble, featuring Daniel Clifford’s subtle vibrato, Maddie Smyth’s breathy viola, Rob Bailey’s spiraling saxophone, Chris Perriman’s melodic bass, Louis Young’s chiming guitar, and Liam Slack’s inventive piano and synth parts, creates a full-bodied and intricate sound.

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