“With All the Other Ghosts”, the debut album of Boulder Fields, is a striking example of the power of simplicity and heartfelt songwriting. Helmed by Scottish singer-songwriter Cam Fraser, this album weaves together the threads of Scottish folk, Americana and indie rock into a rich tapestry of sound that is timeless and refreshingly authentic. An engaging and deeply evocative work, this debut showcases Fraser’s remarkable ability to craft songs that resonate with various, personal and universal, themes. Boulder Fields’ songs are rooted in a deep appreciation for the traditions of folk music, yet they don’t shy away from venturing into more contemporary sonic territories. The acoustic guitar serves as the backbone of the album, with Fraser’s playing delivering delicate finger picking and more forceful strumming, depending on the emotional weight of the song. This creates a dynamic listening experience, where the arrangements may be minimalistic, but they are never lacking in intensity or passion. The album’s lead singles, “Measures” and “Wipe Out the Stars”, offer a perfect introduction to Boulder Fields’ sound. “Measures” is an upbeat, infectious track that combines a catchy melody with a lively rhythm section, making it impossible not to tap your foot or nod along. The song’s energy is palpable, its feel-good vibe is sure to leave listeners smiling. “Wipe Out the Stars,” on the other hand, showcases a more introspective side of Fraser’s songwriting. The gentle, almost haunting melody underscores the emotional weight of the lyrics, making it one of the album’s standout tracks. This balance between upbeat and reflective moments is one of the album’s greatest strengths, offering listeners a well-rounded experience that captures the full range of human emotion. Throughout “With All the Other Ghosts”, Fraser’s voice is a commanding presence. There’s a rawness to his delivery that speaks to his punk rock past, yet it’s tempered by a warmth and sincerity that make his performances feel deeply personal. His vocals are complemented beautifully by the harmonies of long-time collaborator Aly Barr and the talented Suzy Cargill, whose contributions on bass and drums respectively add depth to the album’s sound. One of the album’s most impressive qualities is its ability to fuse different genres into a cohesive whole. While the influence of Scottish folk is undeniable, there’s also a strong Americana thread running through the album, particularly in the storytelling aspect of the lyrics and the rootsy instrumentation. The indie rock elements, meanwhile, bring a modern edge to the sound, ensuring that the album never feels dated or overly nostalgic. This genre-blending approach allows Fraser to create a sound that is distinctly his own, one that pays homage to his influences while also pushing boundaries. “With All the Other Ghosts” is a deeply felt, carefully crafted piece of art that speaks to the power of music as a means of connection and expression. Boulder Fields has created something truly special—a debut album that is as much about honoring the ghosts of the past as it is about forging a path into the future.
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
https://boulderfields.bandcamp.com/album/with-all-the-other-ghosts
