Previously of David’s Lyre fame, 23 year old singer/songwriter Paul Dixon has taken on an immersive new solo project under the guise of Fyfe.
On a musical par with the artists’ previous work, the tracks featured on this EP hint at a more reflective approach to writing, displaying an impressive degree of lyrical depth.
Influences in the form of 2 Door Cinema Club punctuate the abstract mix of sounds on St Tropez; that Dixon appears to be the vocal twin of Alex Trimble only strengthens this flattering comparison. The song’s gentle sway erupts into a warm, forceful patter and swelling horns like the onset of a tropical rainstorm as he asks uncertainly, “Is this not home, dear?”
Having previously been praised for his blend of folk and electronic aids, Dixon continues to experiment with this winning combination, as the record surrounds the listener with softly throbbing guitar and lightly echoing bass, lulling them into a tranquil state. Throughout, the EP provides an epic sense of peace that makes for an incredibly pleasant listening experience which has us daydreaming of leisurely days picnicking in Primrose Hill.
It’s on the record’s namesake that the artist truly comes into his own. Solace is an utter triumph that beautifully demonstrates Dixon’s ability to create a lyrically meaningful song, featuring simple accompaniment which at no point overpowers the song’s message.
The musician’s enviably laid-back approach is evident on every track and the minimalist instrumentals certainly compliment the youngster’s lazy vocals. The result is a clear labour of love and an utterly stunning project debut for Fyfe.
