Paper Wings – Listen to the World Spin
Paper Wings has a new album just released on Free Dirt Records, Listen to the World Spin. Crisp banjo and acoustic guitar and closely resonating harmonies set this album up to send chills down your spine from the beginning. Crafted by a duo in most senses of the word on the album, the songs (except for “Nine Hundred Miles”) were written by Wila Frank and Emily Mann, and the album was produced and performed by the duo as well. It was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Jake Stargel in Nashville.
“It’s Okay” highlights the things that don’t surprise us anymore, and “talk to me, talk to me, come lay your heard on my knee… nothing surprises me anymore.” Skillfully presented imagery of things that once felt familiar that have suddenly become alien, and all the while the achingly beautiful song holds you rapt.
The title track continues the hypnotic melodic effect “oh little star show me how to burn bright.” The banjo plays melodies that are contemporary bluegrass, if at all, and it’s quite lovely. It’s probably more indie folk than traditional, with a degree of emotional gravity in the mix.
“Mad Things” picks up the pace a bit and all the appeal remains.
“Ashby” is a bit more hushed and haunting than some of the others. Their take on the traditional “Nine Hundred Miles” is absolutely chilling. “I hate to hear that lonesome whistle blow.”
These songs are some high quality songwriting – introspective and richly imaginative. They never falter. There’s more than a little reminiscent of Joni Mitchell here. It’s sure to already be on some year end “best of” lists.
Find more info, merch, tour dates etc. on their website here: https://paperwingsband.com/
Musicians on the album are Wila Frank on guitar, vocals, electric guitar, and synth; and Emily Mann on banjo, vocals, fiddle, and harmonium.
All songs are originals by Frank and/or Mann except for Nine Hundred Miles (public domain). Photos on the album cover are by Sarah Kathryn Wainwright, and the daisy chain art is by Anandamayi Arnold.
