Better known for his drum beats in the 5-piece indie outfit Boy & Bear, Tim Hart has stepped out on his own and created his first record as a singer/songwriter in Milling The Wind.
The 12-track debut highlights Hart’s powerful vocals and diverse musical talents through the folky sounds, which exhibit an array of instruments accompanying a tender yet strong voice.
A harmonica takes the limelight in ‘The Old Gate’, but certainly does not outweigh the blissful guitar, keys, brass and banjo sounds that also feature throughout the album.
Emotive lyrics spread across the tracks, Hart taking his listeners on a journey of love and heartache, sharing his stories in an honest and personal realm.
Opening number ‘Architects’ is the stand-out, with an upbeat tempo that sets it apart from what follows with catchy yet subtle guitar rhythms.
The soft and harmonious collection takes a slight turn as ‘A Shadow Of A Man’ showcases a set of grungier and fierce vocals from Hart.
Milling The Wind is a pleasant start for the singer/songwriter, exposing his vast array of musical talents in a melodic and gentle folky package. However, it really does miss a beat, taking more than several listens to appreciate.
Had a couple of upbeat and catchy numbers been added to the list of down-tempo broody tunes, a more rounded collection would have emerged.
Whilst Hart has incredible talent and this debut is to be commended, compared to what is on offer in his live performance, Milling The Wind does not do him justice.
– Mairead Bilton-Gough
