Blaudzun: Heavy Flowers

Blaudzun
Heavy Flowers
Vareses
2013-01-15

Johannes Sigmond is the man behind the Blaudzun moniker, a name he took from a cyclist. Listening to Heavy Flowers, the Holland native’s third effort, that connection becomes sensible. Blaudzun’s songs have evolved into miniature journeys, constantly building and expanding like the world as it passes by on a long trip. Bladzun’s musical styling’s seem to have found a niche position somewhere between the pop-heavy folk of Mumford & Sons and the genuine introspection and innovation of Spencer Krug’s Moonface project.

Sigmond’s lyrics only further the travel-like aspect of Blaudzun’s music, often touching on near-futures and small journeys themselves. Where Heavy Flowers falters is its predictability and repetitive nature, specifically in the constant rise/fall vocal dynamic that gets utilized several times throughout the record. Heavy Flowers‘ strength lies in its surprising ideas in the details, and there are more than enough to keep the listener involved.

RATING 6 / 10