Art Block is a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter based in London who has been gaining a lot of traction in the independent music scene of late, and it’s of no surprise, considering how good his music is! Seagulls EP shows off his folky skills in style, containing a hidden beauty.

By Jane Howkins

The EP opens with the magnificent title track Seagulls, which features a slowly strummed acoustic guitar melody as its backbone, adding a rhythm to the piece in lieu of any other percussion. A sumptuous string section accompanies the guitars, as Art Block’s vocals glide over the music, making it all sound extremely beautiful.

Pilgrim is haunting from the very start, featuring a fingerpicked acoustic guitar melody, with some stunning backing vocals appearing straight away, before the lead vocals arrive. The strings are added slowly as the song progresses, adding a lovely texture to the music, with a sprinkling of piano playing in the background.

Infinity is similar to the previous song with the way the guitar is played, although it’s every so slightly faster. The steady percussion comes purely from what sounds like a foot being tapped, building the tension up as the strings appear to encapsulate the listener. The same melody continues throughout the track, being built upon slowly to create a gorgeous, folky atmosphere.

Stones and Fire is a great closing song, also being the most stripped-down song on the EP. This time around, the piano is the focus of the song, although it’s still rather quiet, drawing you in even closer. It’s quite a slow song, but this only makes it sound more beautiful, as the strings create an aching beauty in the soul.

Art Block is a stunning new talent and one that I hope will follow in the footsteps of the nu-folk movement’s brightest stars. Seagull EP combines the best bits of traditional and modern folk together into one amazing package.

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