Eugenie Johnson discovers soaring soundscapes and sonic exploration on sir Was’s new release
Memphis Industries
Released: 20.09.19
Before releasing Digging A Tunnel, his debut album as sir Was, Gothenburg-based Joel Wästburg spent many years writing and recording purely for himself. When that debut was released to acclaim though, Wästburg found a new sense of self-confidence. As the soaring soundscape of Fly Away kicks off the record, it’s obvious that this self-assurance has imbued itself into Holding On To A Dream.
Although still dense with a melting pot of genres (including hip-hop, soul, classic pop and electronic) it’s an album that’s cohesive, bolder than his first effort; the likes of The Sun Will Shine are immediately attention-grabbing. Although its propulsive nature starts running out of steam by its end, it nevertheless helps to further cement Wästburg’s identity as a sonic explorer.
