It seems a logical step to follow up Scissor Tail Editions 2012 reissue of "The Hired Hand" with these two beautifully constructed pieces of music from artists residing on separate sides of the planet. Both Padang Food Tigers and Chaz Prymek AKA (Lake Mary) employ similar instrumentations to that of Bruce Langhorne's "The Hired Hand". Banjo's play the lead role for both artists in building imaginary desolate landscapes. Guitar and piano float in and out. These could easily be heard as companion pieces "Crabbing King Sappling" builds heavy cinematic tension while "White River" acts as a blissful release. Both artists are apt creators of space and masters of turning your repetitive thoughts into wandering nomads. -Scissor Tail
The seven-inch split by Padang Food Tigers (Spencer Grady and Stephen Lewis) and Lake Mary (Chaz Prymek) is over quickly at eight minutes but not so quickly that it fails to make an impression. Banjo's the common element in both tracks, with Padang Food Tigers using piano, banjo, and acoustic guitars to tell a timeless tale of loss and woe in “Crabbing King Sappling” in three minutes. In complementary manner to the A-side piece, Lake Mary applies a blissful textural approach to the delicate evocation “White River,” even if guitars and banjos do seem hellbent on stirring up some dust during the piece's strings-enhanced second half. charms in its own way, too. One comes away from the EP, as short as it is, reminded of the line authored by William Congreve all the way back in 1697, “Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast.” -Textura
supported by 19 fans who also own “Crabbing King Sappling | White River”
Circular melodies adorned with subtle samples and loops. Its charm makes a lot of sense given that Allender plays in film composer Yann Tiersen’s live band. Lars Gotrich
The quietly moving songs on “Emanations” showcase the nimble guitar work of Saul Guanipa, each piece warm & melodic. Bandcamp New & Notable Jan 31, 2022
Taking inspiration from devotionals and ’60s British folk, Sean Conrad's eleventh Channelers LP is ambient-acoustic at its most meditative. Bandcamp New & Notable Oct 20, 2021
The moody, hypnotic sounds on the latest from Stefan Beck—swaying cello, prickly guitars—are meant to convey a sense of unease. Bandcamp New & Notable Sep 25, 2021
supported by 17 fans who also own “Crabbing King Sappling | White River”
Fine exercise in acoustic guitar styles/production here, six tracks taking various tacks from classic fingerpicking to American Primitive to collaborations and less-crisp production. A good late night listen. Ned Raggett