As a big fan of fat/rich harmonies and relaxed folk tunes, Let it Go EP from Leeds born Fossil Collective is an intriguing prospect. Naming artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Simon and Garfunkel and Neil Young as their early influences, their background is solid and definitely encouraging, as is this five-track release.
From the opening track, ‘Let It Go’, the influences from the English Song Tradition is evident. With big, honest harmonies and a gentle sway providing a very credible hook. Names such as Fleet Foxes and Bon Iver coming to mind. As the lyrics ask us, “Where are we going?”, by the end of this opening title track, you can’t help but wonder what else is in store throughout this EP.
As we ease into the second track, ‘Satellite’, we’re greeted with a far more atmospheric experience. The soft drone of a harmonica, contrasted against the twang of an acoustic guitar sets the scene. The introduction of more pleasant, understated harmonies perfect this unassuming track. With the progression of the track, stronger rhythms are introduced, harmonies varied, and the track develops its own ebb and flow in a hugely natural way. There is no sense of a forced ending, this track winds its way to a finish. Third track ‘Guaratuba’ picks up where ‘Satellite’ left off; with more gentle, swaying rhythms, plenty more harmonies, and just the right amount of reverb. Although ‘Guarantuba’ is the shortest track on the EP, it’s in no way lacking in depth compared to its counterparts.
‘Without A Fight’ swaps the folky-feel enjoyed so far for more of a country twang with lots of big, sweeping melodies and harmonies. Adding a bit of variation to this EP, ‘Without A Fight’ provides some welcome changes. The ballad-esque atmosphere makes the track hugely accessible, and keeps you nicely drawn into where this release is headed. And where it’s headed is straight into the final track, ‘Everything But You Was Facing North’. Winding down some very subtle, atmospheric vibes, this EP finishes on a real high point. Maintaining the natural feel it’s held throughout, this track introduces a slightly heavier use of electronic sounds seamlessly. Blending a number of aspects seen in this EP so far, this track sums up what Fossil Collective are all about – making gentle, beautiful music. There’s nothing big and fancy about this EP; there’s no full orchestras, no ground-breaking discoveries, just some honest to God well written music. This is a band that definitely know where they’re aiming, They draw from their influences to create their mature, developed sound. Without a doubt, this band has plenty of room to grow and perfect themselves and are definitely one to watch for the future.
