Fatherhood and the COVID pandemic kept Small Sur, AKA Bob Keal, a Baltimore-based alternative country-folk artist, from releasing a new record since 2014. Yet, the challenges and new responsibilities that came with being a teacher, parent and partner during COVID, along with the constant support of his friends and fellow musicians, helped Keal to not only complete a new record, but to also influence its warm, loving tones.
Available now for preorder from Worried Songs, Attic Room is a smooth LP of gentle tunes that evoke intimately hushed moments, like late night heart-to-heart phone calls, a clear sunrise after a rainstorm and solitary drives down empty dirt roads.
The tunes on this record are remarkably calm and cosy. The subtle backing of reserved country instrumentation and Keal’s soft vocals glow with affection and comfort. The feeling you get from listening to this album, especially the opening cut, “A Clean Patch of Ground,” is similar to being hugged by your kin. Check it out below:
If you count yourself as a fan of Bonnie “Prince” Billy, Margo Price and Little Wings, then you need this record in your life. Click here to preorder your copy today.
-KH
If you like what you’re reading, please help keep RCU thriving. You can show your support by becoming a patron at our Patreon account or you can make a donation to our PayPal account below.
Record Crates United 