The World
Radiant – S/T (Independent)
In 2011 Ross McLeron began a recording project to
commemorate the marriage of a close pal. I think we can all agree, as wedding
presents go, that sort of gesture ranks considerably higher than napkin rings
or a toaster. Every sound, vocal and instrument that can be heard on the debut
World Radiant collection was written and performed by McLeron, which makes the
gift all the more personal. I should mention, since this album’s release, new
recordings have been issued, and The World Radiant are now a five-piece band.
It’s an intimate, not-quite-lo-fi record, with mostly
introspective lyrics that enmesh themselves, like early Elliott Smith songs, or
Lou Barlow at his most wistful and pensive. I don’t suppose these tracks were
originally intended to reach so wide an audience, but much of the material
McLeron has produced deserves to be heard. He writes measured, meditative tunes
and his words reflect perfectly the nature and spirit of gentle, inward
contemplation and fresh beginnings. “Set Sail”, is a lively launch, and
provides the most palpable reference to a new (married) life. “Broken Things” is almost ethereal,
with what might possibly be a saw adding extra atmosphere. “Apparitions”
employs a similar effect, and best of all, the title track, McLeron almost
speaks the love incantation, and it’s genuinely moving.
Rob F.
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