Young Sea – And The Birds Will Sing (2024)
Young Sea, the emerging Swedish singer-songwriter, makes a strong presence for himself with his debut album And The Birds Will Sing. All nine tracks showcase Erik Rogland Harutunian’s ability to navigate the balance between life’s joys and sorrows, delivering a sound that stands out in the thriving indie folk scene.
The album’s lead single, ‘Mahogany’ is an excellent mixture of strong guitar work and gentle vocals showcasing all aspects of his talent put together with the live ‘Kitchen Session’. The song takes listeners on a journey down memory lane. The addition of a subtle trumpet in the album version adds depth to this reflection on the passage of time. ‘Mahogany’ sets the tone for an album that’s both introspective and sonically rich. When looking at ‘Mahogany’, Young Sea explains:
“The song idea stems from getting older, something I started thinking about more after I turned 30. Mahogany itself is about realizing you’re ageing and that there are days that repeat between the sun and the moon, looking back to the inaccessible past but above all – remembering all the moments that have filled your life with memories.”
Other standout tracks include ‘Fitzgerald’, an upbeat opener that promises to be a rousing bar anthem, and ‘Blood and Wine’, which showcases Young Sea’s heartfelt lyricism within an upbeat folk framework. The album also features more experimental tracks like ‘Blue Moon’ and ‘On the Run’ leading with instrumentals and inviting listeners to paint their own mental landscapes.
I believe Young Sea’s strength lies in his ability to deliver tracks that cut through the noise of everyday life. His colourful songwriting shines throughout the album, creating a listening experience that feels both personal and universal at the same time. While the album touches on themes of ageing and nostalgia, it’s far from melancholic. Instead, it celebrates the moments that fill life with memories, balanced between reflection and optimism.
For fans of indie folk, Young Sea’s debut is a must-listen. And The Birds Will Sing marks the arrival of a promising new voice in the genre. It’s a strong first album that makes you want to hear what he’ll do next.
Find out more about Young Sea on his Instagram and Spotify.
Listen to more indie-folk melodies on The Other Side Reviews Indie Folk playlist:
