Keaton Henson’s ‘Fragments EP’ was made as a companion piece to last year’s ‘Monument’ album, written and recorded at the same time.
‘Monument’ is a fragile, meditative and emotional unravelling of grief in the aftermath of losing his father, and for all its hushed acoustics, ‘Monument’ cocooned its emotion in some beautifully tender melodies and acute observations. It’s a warm and relatable listen.
On ‘Fragments EP’, whilst the lyrical themes and subjects may stray from ‘Monument’’s poignant subject matter, in its sound and atmosphere, it feels suitably entwined.
The eight tracks that form the EP orbit a sweeping kaleidoscope of sonic shapes, shades and textures. Keaton’s voice offers lyrics in an almost frozen romanticism. It’s a voice that sounds rooted in turmoil but also of strength. A happy sadness. Bleakly beautiful.
Julien Baker shares a mic from across the ocean in Australia on ‘Marionette’. A songwriter of due reverence herself, Baker and Keaton share an affinity with the power of hushed words, fizzing melodies and an innate wisdom.
‘Fragments EP’ and ‘Monument’ are two fine bodies of work by this singular, unique British artist, and two empathetic records of sorrow and strength.
A Cassette Interlude
Limb
Before Growing Old
Marionette (with Julien Baker)
New Kid
Invite
No Love Lost
For Kiran
