On A Limb are a New York City, USA-based piano trio who have just come to my attention through to the release of their latest album.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Addie Vogt

When the Skies Parted is the third full-length studio release for On A Limb, following 2020’s Replaying the Tapes and their 2019 self-titled debut. It’s an album that reflects on the time of the pandemic, a momentous period for On A Limb. With the background of the unprecedented loss for the world, the band suffered a personal tragedy through the passing away of their drummer Charlie Schefft’s father.

It’s the transition that followed that inspired the six tracks of When the Skies Parted. In 2021, On A Limb recruited Ethan Marsh on bass and quickly began working on their new album. It wasn’t until 2023 that the album was recorded, over four days in New Haven, Connecticut. While bandleader and pianist Andrew Haug did the bulk of the writing, penning five tracks, Ethan, too, gets a writing credit for the other.

There’s a wonderful sense of contrast that hits you right away in On A Limb’s compositions. Opening piece Know What You Know feels at once bright and vibrant while also moody and melancholic. Taking its time to unfold, we never quite know what’s going to be around the next musical bend.

What’s never in doubt, though, is the skill that’s on display. Andrew is clearly a gifted pianist, and the three work together beautifully. Cut to the Chase is a case in point – dynamic, vibrant and jazzy. Into the River, too, is textured and varied. Tried to Leave My Demons in Otis is a soft, contemplative centre-piece while Train Chasing follows with a steady, brooding atmosphere. The album is rounded off by Song 102, a delicate yet punchy piece that brimming with hope.

When the Skies Parted was mixed and mastered by Dave Darlington. It is self-released under Honestly Records and is available to buy as a digital album or CD. You can check it out below.