Home is such a special concept, often more of a feeling than a physical space. Even after months or years of being away from that particular place that we designate as “home”, you can’t shake that sense of oneness that just can’t be replicated elsewhere.
For Scottish singer-songwriter Sophie Penman, this idea became her reality when she returned to her home city Edinburgh after spending some time abroad. As she pondered on belonging and identity during long walks around those distinctive sandstone buildings, cobbled alleyways and atmospheric parks, the sparks of a song emerged in her mind.
As such, ‘Albert Street’ is such a delightfully lively yet tranquil journey through the past, present, memory, and existence. These themes especially come to life through Penman‘s unique blend of folk and soul, which adds an essential warmth to the bittersweet beauty of coming home. A steady percussion mimics a gentle walking pace, over which skipping bluesy keys and Penman‘s subtly smokey voice move together in an easy harmony.
Speaking about the easy-going vibe that she set out to create in ‘Albert Street’, Penman explains: “I wanted the recording process to unfold organically, keeping the arrangement simple with vocals, piano and bass tracked in my bedroom, with my dad on the bass. The track came to life with drums by my old friend Ryan Thrupp, and was given its final polish by Jack Stanton and Harry at HCH Studios. Although it took a while, I loved watching the song slowly transform with the input of great musicians.”
As we slip further into winter’s chilly months, lines like “oh, I miss those days in the sun,” strike with a special potency and hint towards a deeper truth hidden beneath the meteorological symbolism, that of a past love. These layers of meaning captured within some seriously catchy hooks are exactly why we’ll be keeping a close eye on Sophie Penman in the new year.
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