Will Ash is a Los Angeles, USA-based folk singer songwriter who is appearing on our blog for the first time through his powerfully personal new album october.

By Graeme Smith

Inspired by the likes of Leonard Cohen, Elliot Smith, Gregory Alan Isakov, Will writes music that focusses on poetic lyrics and emotional storytelling.

His new album october dwells on the end of a five year relationship, sharing a deeply personal story that was written over two weeks. It’s raw and visceral right from the off with pleading album opener day of change. Will’s vocals make the emotion of its story clear as they speak with a broken heart. As the track progresses, it grows with hope and confidence, and a soft rock instrumental interlude proves to be electric.

Red roses strips things back with a jangly acoustic folk number that makes great use of loud/quiet contrast. Its lyrics paint a picture of love in turmoil. Me and you rumbles along ponderously and feels like a confession. I’m sorry rounds off the album’s early listening with an intimate moment. Will’s use of metaphor in its lyrics makes it a highlight.

Other highlights include the meditative melancholy of no turning back, the reluctantly adventurous the old me, the bluesy when the morning comes, open-hearted title track october and bright album closer time may tell.

I often say what sets certain albums apart from the rest is the artist’s bravery in baring their soul. In october, Will braves it all, and the result is an intense collection that will feel relatable to anyone who had experienced the end of love. If you’re a fan of acoustic folk and songwriters with a skill for storytelling then you need to check out this album.

October was written, performed, recorded and mixed entirely by Will. It’s out now and you can check it out below.