Low Leaf
AKASHAALAY
Fresh Selects
Street: 04.29
Low Leaf = St. Vincent + Teebs
I’m pretty awestruck with this release, which begins with instrumentation that combines electronic compositions layered with organic melodies played through the harp, guitar and piano, creating a transcendental experience upon listening. A spiritual tribute to her motherland, the Philipines, AKASHAALAY combines traditional island music with intricate progressions to convey messages of human compassion and peace. “Rise Up” is where this combination comes through the strongest, with colorful melodies that are hard to sit still through, where “Slaveless Master” evokes sensitivity to the vulnerable and, ultimately, inspirational messages conveyed throughout the album. As a singer, songwriter and producer, Low Leaf has piloted every aspect of this work, giving the album a refreshing force. –Brinley Froelich