Herald K – Wandering Aengus (2022)
Described by publications as having “hypnotic music” (Indie Dock Music Blog), “…hard-hitting lyricism and a gripping sound…” (We Write About Music) and a “…scintillating style of ballad…” (Sinusoidal Music), Herald K is clearing an intoxicating artist. Working with a seemingly rotating collective of musicians, the Austria-based singer-songwriter gathers diverse experiences, influences and styles within his music. Yet, while several musicians are involved in different songs, Herald K retains an ethereal mystery in all of the tracks. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Wandering Aengus’.
Following his critically acclaimed single ‘Arethusa’, ‘Wandering Aengus’ is Herald K’s sonic interpretation of William Butler Yeats’s poem from 1899. Recorded during the pandemic, the song is the product of an online collaboration where each section was recorded in the relevant artist’s home studio. Combining the talents of Herald K (vocal and guitars), Markus Mayerhofer (steel guitar) and Navid Djawadi (double bass), ‘Wandering Aengus’ is referred to, by Herald K, as a true “lockdown project” – plus, the powerful passion behind the track might be credited to a “this may be your last musical project ever…” mentality. I’m hoping this is not his last musical project.
Taken from his upcoming album Mythologies, ‘Wandering Aengus’ encapsulates the desperation of Yeats’ poem with the surreal misty ambience of Herald K’s sound. As with ‘Arethusa’, there is a softness to the track; however, ‘Wandering Aengus’ presents a more indie-folk mystery in the melody. Acoustic-inspired, there is a wonderful smoothness to the arrangement as the guitars, double bass and vocals weave a gentle sonic tapestry. Interestingly enough, the soothing quality of the melody fits perfectly with the romanticism of the Yeats poem.
Influenced greatly by literature and mythology, Herald K describes ‘Wandering Aengus’ as an “…lyrical and romantic with allusions to Irish mythology…” The simplicity of the melody and heart-breaking obscurity of Herald K’s spoken-word vocals really represents the charm of the tales. Listening to his eclectic, but beautifully eclectic, music is like sitting listening to Yeats back in the 19th century…divine and enchanting.
For more from Herald K check out his official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
