Recorded in a small Canadian living room, Woodstock, Ontario-based multi-instrumentalist Corbin Hawkins strips everything back with his new EP, wind, before the rain.

By Graeme Smith

The pleading vocals paired with a looping acoustic guitar melody of opener How Sweet Is Life gives you a good idea of what to expect from Corbin Hawkins’ new EP. Yet, there’s plenty in the collection of five tracks to keep you engaged right to its last bar.

The overall vibe of wind, before the rain is a positive one. As Corbin himself puts it, the recording of it was “fuelled by great food, drink, and friendship.” That warmth certainly comes through strongly in its rich harmonies and intimate style.

It wouldn’t be folk without some melancholy though. Always Looking For The Sun is a case in point. It broods gently as its image-laden story comes to life. They speak of weariness and seeking the comfort of home in a beautifully relatable way.

Oh My keeps things fresh with the additional of piano. Pedro’s Ghost is a haunting vignette augmented by the sound of falling rain. Bitter Blue rounds of the EP’s story with some heartache. Corbin’s vocals are at their most expressive during its soaring verses. With it, Corbin saves the best for last.

The authenticity and genuineness on display in wind, before the rain is what makes it stand out from the crowd, and it’s why I knew I had to share it. Corbin does raw like few are able to, and lets his captivating song writing do the heavy lifting to hold the listeners attention. I can say from personal experience, it certainly works. I was gripped from start to finish.

Wind, before the rain is out now and you can listen to it below.