Inspired by mythology and film soundtracks, in particular the animated short The Rain Horse by John Zorn, Tricks of the Light is the storytelling new EP from E.G. Phillips.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Chris Cothran

We’re well acquainted with E.G. Phillips poetry by now and it’s great to hear it in a wider collection. The narrative strength of his new EP is evident right from the off with opener From The Corner of My Eye. There’s a yearning romanticism about it, and more than a hint of classic Leonard Cohen.

The Light You Reflect, which we’ve shared on these pages before, is an early highlight, rich with imagery and a waltzing, lullaby-esque style. Albatross Song is full of a classicality. The Flesh of Birds is light, lilting and suitably airy. When It Gets Dark closes the EP with lush calmness.

The EP was recorded with two time Grammy winning producer/arranger Nahuel Bronzini (Mixing Engineer, Fantastic Negrito) and his musical counterpart Felipe Ubeda (aka Cigarbox Man). Joining E.G. Phillips on the record are Omree Gal-Oz (piano), Curtis Aikens (upright bass), and Chloe Mendola (cello), with additional contributions from Daniel Riera (flute) and Sarah Bonomo (clarinet).

Tricks of the Light is an enchanting new collection from the San Francisco, USA-based artist, giving us plenty more sonic fodder to mull over. The EP is out now and you can give it a listen below.