Artist: Oliver James Brooks
Album: In A Little Long While
Release Date: November 24, 2023
Genre: Singer-Songwriter/ Alternative
Renowned singer-songwriter Oliver James Brooks, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Toronto, is thrilled to announce the release of his fourth studio album, In A Little Long While. This alternative folk collection is a testament to Brooks’ commitment to crafting raw, organic, and real sounds that resonate with listeners.
In A Little Long While marks Oliver James Brooks’ fourth studio album, a musical journey that unfolded over the past two years at River Valley Studio – essentially Oliver’s living room. Utilizing vintage gear from the 70s for recording, mixing, and mastering, the album embraces the analog imperfections, with sounds that wobble and tape hisses that add a nostalgic warmth.
To bring his vision to life, Oliver was fortunate to collaborate with a group of exceptionally talented friends. Longtime friend Annie Rowlinson played bass, while the multi-talented producer and drummer Jack Emblem provided the rhythmic backbone. Adding another layer to the album’s depth, Oliver’s brother-in-law, Nick Johnston, contributed his skills on the keys. The record was expertly finished and mastered on tape by Joao Carvalho, utilizing his vintage AMPEX ATR-102.
“This record would not have come together the way it did without the help of the individuals mentioned above – thanks, guys,” expressed Brooks.
The title track, “In A Little Long While,” is a captivating journey of introspection and optimism through expertly crafted lyrics. With a central theme of waiting and the recurring phrase “In a little long while,” the song brims with anticipation, inviting listeners to traverse the passage of time alongside the artist. Mellow vocals seamlessly complement the reflective lyrics, elevating the emotional depth of the composition for a truly immersive experience.
“The Deeper You Go” weaves evocative melodies and introspective lyrics into a poignant track, delivered through enchanting vocals. Exploring life’s complexities and hidden struggles, the artist skillfully employs the metaphor of depth to convey that true understanding unveils the essence of existence. The emotional weight of the song is borne by both powerful lyrics and a captivating musical arrangement, creating a compelling and immersive listening experience.
Closing the album, “Right Place, Wrong Time” is a soulful exploration of life’s complexities and the pursuit of elusive dreams. The lyrics convey a poignant sense of searching and grappling with missed opportunities, encapsulated in the phrase “Right place, wrong time.” Raw honesty, seen in lines like “But I am trying real hard / To give a shit,” adds vulnerability, offering a glimpse into the artist’s internal struggle. This introspective track paints a relatable narrative, contrasting present-day reality with an idealized dream and inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys.
In a Little Long While offers a mesmerizing musical journey, seamlessly weaving themes of introspection, optimism, and the pursuit of dreams. The artist’s adept exploration of diverse subjects adds depth and relatability to the overall narrative.