Record Review: Derik Hultquist

by | Sep 19, 2011 | Reviews

Derik Hultquist
Anthologies
Nashville, TN

“Easy listening songs of self-reflection”

Anthologies, Derik Hultquist’s latest record, features ten gently flowing, catchy songs comfortably nestled in a reflective singer/songwriter style with a dash of country flavor added in.

LISTEN NOW: “Linger”

[audio:http://performermag.com/wp-content/uploads/03-Linger.mp3|titles=03 Linger]

The twangy, up-tempo “Ferris Wheel” kicks things off, showcasing the rich musical layers prominent on most of the album’s songs. “Wolves” has a slower, brooding tone that gives it a feeling of starkness, despite the many layers present throughout the track. On “Linger,” the piano work heightens the longing tone set with the lyrics, “In my dreams / she lingers on.”

The sad tale of “Methamphetamine” unfolds as Hultquist sings, “What have you got to lose but everything.” On “Whether Report,” the music intensifies as the song progresses, building upon the steady, opening drum beats and rolling organ. The album finishes with two simpler, acoustic songs: “Dollar A Day” and “Cowboy Cliché.”

Anthologies is a thoughtfully produced, easy listening record with an abundance of ear-catching musical arrangements and tender, expressive lyrics that showcase Hultquist’s passionate vocals. (Self-released)

Engineered and Produced by Steven Page in Bowling Green, KY
Additional Engineering and Production by Andrew Chapman
Mastered by Andrew Chapman at 16th Edge Studios in Nashville, TN

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