Since forming the band Stables a few years ago, the duo of Matthew Lowe and Daniel Rymer Trenholme have had a busy time.
Their debut release Beyond Brushes was welcomed with open arms by fans and critics. They had the likes of the BBC’s Steve Lamacq, Tom Robinson, and BBC 6Music Recommends helping to champion their sound. Not only that but it has seen them perform around the UK and Europe, including Glastonbury Festival. So when they announced they were working on a new album, the pressure was on.
The guys have now released their new album Reverie and they can’t wait for people to hear it. Lowe has called it an “almost break up album” that he wrote whilst in a “period of relationship unrest, which resolved during the process.”
If you are expecting another collection of songs like their debut, then you may be a little disappointed. Instead, the new album shows the evolution of Stables, which offers a wider range of sounds and a more impressive depth to their writing.
They still bring their signature style of retro folk with a modern day twist, but this has now grown. The new depth of their sound is a delight to hear, with songs like “Dandelions & Daisies” and “French Martini” bringing a new uptempo energy that feels like a ray of sunshine. “Ocean” brings an old-school vibe, thanks to the use of the banjo, while the title track brings something that would not be out of place on mainstream radio with its infectious hooks.
One thing that has not changed is the stunning vocals. Either from Lowe or when Trenholme joins in to bring some sublime harmonies. There is not a single moment when they do not deliver. “Life on Repeat” is just one of many examples of how good these guys sound.
Reverie is a wonderful collection of songs that was built on the foundation laid by their debut. There are no weak tracks to be found, though some do not stand quite as tall as others. There are some, like “Walk On,” which are dark horses that just get better and better.
If you are looking for one track to pick from the album, then “Worry” is a perfect choice. This ticks all the boxes on what makes the music of Stables stand out. The song starts with a stunning atmospheric sound set by the use of delicate piano and guitar. Then Lowe’s vocals add a captivating emotional tone which is supported at times from Trenholme to pack a punch. Beautiful!
‘Reverie’ Proves Stables Moving from Strength to Strength
Take some time and give Reverie a listen. It shows a band that has not been afraid to take their music to a new level by pushing their sound forward. You can find the album on Bandcamp and Spotify.
To find out more about Stables, including upcoming shows, head over to StablesMusic.com. Or you can visit their social media platforms over at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
