Trappist Afterland is an enigmatic folk collective led by Adam Geoffrey Cole, hailing from the creative depths of Adelaide, Australia. Renowned for their captivating blend of acoustic instrumentation and otherworldly aesthetics, the band weaves a tapestry of sound using tabla, harmonium, tanpura drones, and an array of stringed instruments. Their music, firmly rooted in folk traditions, incorporates elements from the British folk revival, 70s acid folk, Indian raga, and even Gamelan music, resulting in a unique soundscape. This fusion of global influences is further enriched by mystical lyricism exploring themes of Gnosticism, Christian mysticism, and esoteric philosophy. Despite these timeless explorations, Trappist Afterland remains remarkably contemporary, balancing the arcane with the immediate to produce music that feels both ancient and profoundly current.
Released on November 20th, 2024, “EVERGREEN – Walk To Paradise Garden” is the 10th studio album by Trappist Afterland, and perhaps their most poignant and introspective work to date. Composed during a tumultuous period in Adam Geoffrey Cole’s life, the album bears the imprint of personal loss and renewal. Crafted amidst the winter rains of the Adelaide hills and long journeys to visit his ailing mother in Kiama, this collection of songs emerges as a bittersweet meditation on love, memory, and resilience.
The album enlists an impressive roster of collaborators, includeing UK guitar virtuoso Henry Parker, trad-folk luminary Angeline Morrison, and multi-instrumentalist and producer Tali Trow. Visionary poet and vocalist David Tibet of Current 93 lends his ethereal touch, while Cole’s long-time collaborators Anthony Cornish, Tom Warren, and Matt Malone provide the foundational textures that anchor the album. At its core, “EVERGREEN – Walk To Paradise Garden” is a testament to Trappist Afterland’s ability to balance heartbreak with transcendence. Each of the nine tracks unfurls like a chapter in a deeply personal diary, oscillating between grief and solace.
EVERGREEN – Walk To Paradise Garden Album Track List:
The Squall:
“The Squall”, the opening track of “EVERGREEN – Walk To Paradise Garden”, by Trappist Afterland, begins with an ominous hum of acoustic tension, drawing listeners into an introspective and meditative soundscape. The song starts softly, the steady rhythm created by the interplay of strings and sparse percussion gently guiding the listener into a state of contemplation. The vocals enter almost like a whisper on the wind, immediately setting a spiritual and contemplative tone that hints at the larger narrative of the album. The minimalist composition, dominated by acoustic guitar and gentle percussion, enables each note to resonate with purpose, fostering a sense of space and depth. The ethereal vocal delivery, rich in mystique, enhances the track’s ambiance, with a voice that carries a shaman-like quality, luring the listener further into the story. The articulation is intentional, with each word filled with significance and feeling, merging effortlessly with the instrumental background to weave a sonic fabric that is both grounded and transcendent.
The authenticity of the vocals in “The Squall” contrasts elegantly with the refined instrumentation, showcasing a mood that is contemplative yet chaotic. The track is richly atmospheric, radiating an ancient essence as it encourages the listener to immerse themselves in its intricate layers of sound and meaning. This introspective quality is tangible, with the performance resonating long after the last note has disappeared, making it a strong opener for the album. The interplay of subtle rhythmic changes and haunting vocals cultivates a sense of a journey, evoking emotions that are both reflective and otherworldly.
“The Squall” creates a contemplative and immersive ambience that establishes the mood for the remainder of “EVERGREEN – Walk To Paradise Garden.” Its fusion of minimalism and mysticism showcases Trappist Afterland’s skill in crafting music that strikes a deep chord. The track beckons listeners to explore its layers of sound and significance, drawing them into an emotional and spiritual storm that remains in the heart and mind. It’s a composition that, while straightforward in its arrangement, reveals complexity in its execution, highlighting the band’s aptitude for producing music that focuses on both the journey and the destination.
Barefoot in Thistles:
“Barefoot in Thistles,” the fifth track from “EVERGREEN – Walk To Paradise Garden,” is a moving and evocative composition that encapsulates Trappist Afterland’s distinctive fusion of reflection and mysticism. The song begins with a stark and resonant acoustic guitar melody, its sharp, intentional notes evoking the feeling of bare feet traversing a harsh, unforgiving terrain. This imagery instantly sets a tone of perseverance and introspection, with the minimalist arrangement pulling the listener into its reflective realm. The tension in these initial moments is intense, portraying a narrative of struggle and elevation—a recurring motif within the band’s psych-folk style.
The musical composition of “Barefoot in Thistles” appears uncomplicated at first glance yet is filled with rich textures. The acoustic guitar plays a dual role as the rhythmic foundation and melodic leader, with its elaborate plucking patterns introducing subtle variations that enhance the overall depth of the track. The understated percussion—gentle taps and shuffling noises—offers a tactile dimension, heightening the imagery of traversing a prickly path. This minimalist style creates an intimate audio environment that allows the vocals and lyrics to shine. The interplay between these components demonstrates the band’s skill in evoking intricate emotions through restraint and subtlety, drawing listeners into the song’s story.
The vocal performance is hauntingly sincere and profoundly expressive, capturing the contrast between vulnerability and quiet resilience. Each word is delivered with care, resonating with an allegorical significance that complements the poignant instrumentation. The lyrics are vivid, inviting listeners to ponder their own struggles and transformations, thereby crafting a collective emotional experience. The song’s atmosphere is reflective yet infused with hope, offering comfort amid the thistles. “Barefoot in Thistles” transcends mere music; it is an all-encompassing experience that intertwines the earthy with the ethereal, leaving a lasting impact. As a highlight of the album, it embodies Trappist Afterland’s talent for creating music that is both intensely personal and widely relatable.
Our Masterpiece:
“Our Masterpiece,” the seventh track from “EVERGREEN – Walk To Paradise Garden,” is a tranquil and contemplative piece that exemplifies Trappist Afterland’s knack for merging intimacy with grandeur. The track opens with the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar, its intentional and resonant notes inviting the listener into an intensely personal space. Delicate percussion contributes subtle depth, while sparse, bell-like sounds enhance the soundscape with an almost spiritual essence. This restrained introduction feels both grounded and expansive, preparing the listener for a song that encourages introspection and reverence.
Musically, “Our Masterpiece” exemplifies minimalism and texture. The acoustic guitar forms the melodic backbone, its phrasing precise and emotionally charged. The understated percussion mimics the rhythm of a thoughtful stroll, adding a gentle heartbeat to the track. The instrumentation is meticulously arranged so that each note feels intentional, evoking a sensation of spaciousness and equilibrium. This delicate balance between the organic and the otherworldly crafts a meditative auditory experience that draws the listener further into the emotional terrain of the song.
The vocal delivery is the essence of “Our Masterpiece,” with a performance that is both fragile and authoritative. The singer’s voice conveys vulnerability as if conveying a sacred truth, while the poetic lyrics resonate with universal themes of contemplation and connection. The conversational closeness of the vocals, combined with the guitar’s melodic lines, fosters a feeling of unity and intent. Collectively, the elements of the track create a cohesive narrative, presenting moments of stillness and awe. The atmosphere evokes quiet wonder, akin to standing before a magnificent and timeless creation. With its delicate beauty and intricate layers, “Our Masterpiece” stands out as a memorable track, showcasing Trappist Afterland’s ability to produce music that feels both terrestrial and divine.
You Are Evergreen:
The final track, “You Are Evergreen,” on the album “EVERGREEN – Walk to Paradise Garden,” provides a calm and contemplative end to the listening experience. It begins with a gentle yet impactful melody, where acoustic guitar chords flow like sunlight streaming through thick leaves. This initial strum evokes a feeling of rejuvenation and quiet self-reflection, drawing the listener into an introspective sound world. The pastoral character is quickly established, supported by soft resonances that offer an earthy richness, almost meditative in nature. The beauty of the song lies in its straightforwardness; the bright, clear guitar sounds weave a melody that, while warm, carries a touch of melancholy, and the minimalist percussion adds a subtle rhythm that enhances the song’s intimate feel without dominating it.
The vocals in “You Are Evergreen” are soft and expressive, performed with a gentle intensity that beautifully matches the instrumental backdrop. The singer’s voice is smooth and heartfelt, filled with genuineness and respect. The interaction between the vocals and the instruments flows effortlessly, forging a profound emotional bond as the lyrics reflect on the enduring essence of life and the transient nature of moments. The track creates a tranquil and uplifting ambiance, subtly infused with a sense of nostalgia that persists long after the last notes have concluded. “You Are Evergreen” embodies a celebration of the present moment, encouraging listeners to pause and reflect, to feel anchored in the now while pondering the eternal.
The song evokes a sense of timelessness, encapsulating Trappist Afterland’s unique ability to blend simplicity with deep meaning. More than just a closing piece, “You Are Evergreen” serves as a musical meditation, reminding us of the fleeting nature and beauty of life’s experiences. The exceptional fusion of melody, lyrics, and atmosphere distinguishes it within the album, leaving a deep resonance with its audience and creating a lasting impression. Trappist Afterland wraps up “EVERGREEN – Walk to Paradise Garden” with a track that is both contemplative and uplifting, offering listeners a feeling of tranquility and renewal.
The sonic diversity of the album is both personal and expansive, integrating harmonium drones, intricate string arrangements, and hauntingly beautiful vocal harmonies into a timeless musical journey. The lyrical themes throughout the album explore the transience of life and the ephemeral beauty found in human relationships. Originating from personal experiences like the passing of Cole’s mother and the end of his marriage, these tracks convey an authentic emotional depth that connects powerfully. Nevertheless, within its somber tones, the album also provides moments of hope and regeneration. Cole’s poetic insights into growth and healing serve as a reminder that even during the darkest times, fresh beginnings are always poised to arise. This idea is poignantly illustrated by the central metaphor of the evergreen, symbolizing perseverance and vitality through life’s challenges.
“EVERGREEN – Walk to Paradise Garden” is a radiant piece of artistry that moves beyond its folk influences, exploring universal themes of love, loss, and rebirth. It encourages listeners not only to hear but to truly feel, prompting them to embrace life in all its complexity and beauty. For those seeking music that resonates deeply and remains in the heart, this is an album worthy of attention.
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