The album that ‘Trappist Afterland’ produced in their new release, “Walk to Paradise Garden”, was made during a period of personal loss which has greatly influenced the album’s theme and atmosphere. With signs of heartbreak, the nine songs portrayed a great struggle yet underwent massive growth, which makes the album feel like it contains harsh realism but blended with traditional folk. This whole mixture of genres allows for the album to feel like it stands the test of time.
“The Squall” is an emotionally charged song filled with sadness and turmoil. The perspective of life is reflected through the lyrics in a calm yet mild manner that adds an allude to the beginning of the album. Loss, Grief, and seeking peace are the core emotions represented. “The Good Old Way” holds a rich contrast when compared to the Want So Much; it adds a feeling of hope while capturing the essence of the past and putting you in a more comforting mood through the gentle rhythm the soothing vocals provide, further encapsulating you into the song. In “Cruciform – Reincarnation of Kelly-Anne” ” reincarnation and Life’s cycle are the two core topics that meld across the music while being haunting and uplifting at the same time. The chaotic and intense emotional switches that the song went through truly encourage you to reflect on the purpose of life and the connections you share with others. “Give Thanks and Lament” is a song that blends appreciation and sorrow while elucidating the loss. It feels like a moment where one pauses and surveys the love and anguish life serves to offer.
Moving over to Jesse Verang’s song “Barefoot in Thistle” the music becomes stripped down and bare while the lyrics move towards stronger. The song feels emotionally charged with Jesse conveying a dull but relatable pain. It feels vulnerable. “Green St Return” gives the listener a sense of quietude and is devoid of any discomfort. The calmness combined with the sweet melody of the song makes one feel nostalgic and yearn for the familiar feeling that feels present in the song but may not be so in real life. “Our Masterpiece” talks about work or, in broader terms, the importance of work in life. For someone struggling through a tough time, the song has an uplifting vibe and energy encouraging not to give up.
“Incarnation Blues”, unlike other previously mentioned songs, lends itself towards being darker and exploring the darker side of life and the struggles of being human. The lyrics explore themes that, in essence, encompass the sadness and blurry feeling of life. There is a bluesy hint to the rhythm of the song, giving a perfect ending to the album. “You Are Evergreen”, a heartening song about the endurance of life, is the final track of the album. It serves as a reminder that even in death, a part of us endures. The music provides a tranquil ending to the album.
“Walk to Paradise Garden” is a captivating album that demonstrates the potential of Trappist Afterland’s music. The concepts of love, loss, and evolution are, in a way, timeless and this music captures all these emotions perfectly. Anyone experiencing grief or contemplating life would find it very soothing, and therefore, this album is essential in such scenarios.
