Hawksley retuns to the little schoolhouse in the middle of n
Ryan Corrigan's Biggest Fan | Muskoka, Canada | 06/24/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Some reviewers have written some very odd things about Hawksley's newest album. One reviewer was surprised, yes surprised, to see that Hawksley actually played the piano. This kind of ignorance makes a great statement for how well the reviewer knows his Hawksley, and how well the reviewer knows Hawksley's fans. As for me, I find this new album a relaxing change to his previously energetic and rocktastic experimental album.
If you loved Lover/Fighter, but have not heard his other albums, wait for the next album to come out. If you appreciate romantic, naturalistic lyrics with a folk undertone, you will love Treeful of Starling, just as I do.
Treeful of Starling represents a recovery period for Hawksley. After drying out in the desert, Hawksley reached into his musical, and cultural beginnings to find inspiration. His roots in Muskoka sit in the undertones of this album. The calm and natural lyrics, vocals and instrumental are highlighted by songs such as "Goodbye to Radio". The folk roots are felt in "When These Mountains Were a Seashore".
A trip to Ravensliff or Ilfacome will easily wet your appetite for this longingly reflective album. I would recommend getting in touch with your inner Muskokan before attempting this album.
Treeful of Starling is not for everyone. If you are looking for another rock album, Hawksley has one waiting in the wings, produced and ready to go. If you are willing to keep an open mind and find yourself relaxing in a Muskoka chair by the lapping water with the loons calling, pick up Treeful of Starling and be prepared for beauty in its truest form."
Treeful is a Wonder
Omeed Dariani | 03/26/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Hawksley Workman is one of the best singer/songwriters out there currently. His lyrics are evocative and complex. Though virtually unknown in the US, he's pretty huge in Canada. Thank god for my Canadian friends!
Treeful, though certainly not his strongest album, is still simply brilliant. It has a folksy, country thing going on... but it's still a lot of fun and full of incredibly romantic, layered lyrics. Notables are You and the Candles and When These Mountains Were the Seashore, though all the songs are pretty strong.
The biggest weakness of the album is length. With only nine tracks, it weighs in at a little over 30 minutes.
If you're looking for an introductory album to Hawksley, this is probably not the one. Pick up For Him and the Girls, which is absolutely astounding."
An Album Worth Every Listening Second
Essex | Peterborough, ON, Canada | 04/08/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Hawksley Workman is an original in a time of over-produced, corporate-manufactured tripe.
Treeful Of Starling is absolutely stunning. I have rarely heard an album that is front-to-back stacked with such beautiful lyrics. "It's A Long Life To Always Be Longing" may go down as my favourite Hawksley song ever. It is touching, soulful and filled with truth. He not only grabs at your heart with striking lyrics and a soft, sweet musicality, Hawksley fits in his quirky kind of fun that he is so good at. Give "When These Mountains Were The Seashore" a listen for the best example of this.
This album is more than worth supporting a gifted artist."