released: august 2, 2024

genre: folk / acoustic

from: leamington spa, uk

label: pressé

a few thoughts: i have been a fan of bastien keb’s music for quite a few years now, perhaps even nearing the decade mark. ouff, how time flies. one of the most innovating and creative producers from britain, he’s created a dedicated fanbase for himself, and has experimented with new sounds and grown creatively as well. songs from lilla is testament to this, a short but sweet 6 track ep that simultaneously feels like a departure from the dynamic, eclectic production he’s made over the years, yet with a familiarity to it. bastien keb has used his voice on previous records, but lilla is a full on acoustic folk record, with him singing with a gentleness and emotion that feels so touching and revealing. there’s a vulnerability to his voice and lyrics too, as displayed on the opener “christian’s fingers” with a beautiful yet melancholic melody, driven by bastien’s voice and keys that bring out a touching listening experience, while the guitar melodies on “oh paul” and “palagae bells” remind me of the autumn vibe bon iver exhibits in his music. talking about his his life learnings and pondering on love, “your learnings” is a powerful moment on the project. the dynamic energy on “she was” is incredible, with guitar leads and strings coming in, telling a story of love and loss. it’s a captivating moment, a truly memorable moment on the album. “luisa” is an emotive closer, with bastien keb’s ethereal voice adding to the textured production that surrounds it. the piano and guitar melodies intertwine perfectly, giving space for bastien to shine, with a vocal performance that is stunning. songs from lilla is an immersive listening experience that is both beautiful and melancholic, and is one of bastien keb’s strongest musical achievements to date.

the project: