Chapter of the Forest, a tranquil musical exploration of respite for the soul.
(Vanguard Records) There comes a time in every musician’s life when retreating is not only crucial for one’s creativity, but essential for survival. Some of the things that can arise from this much-needed respite for the soul include: a sincerity that can’t be forced, a tranquility that can’t be fabricated and a voice that can’t be replicated. Trevor Hall demonstrates this and more with the release of Chapter of the Forest after nearly a three-year hiatus.
Debuting at #3 on the iTunes Singer/Songwriter chart, Chapter of the Forest exposes a mature and raspy-voiced Trevor Hall. It’s apparent that the years spent out of the public eye were formative for Hall not only as a musician, but as a spiritual seeker. Hall is known for singing about his devotional beliefs; which has made his music a staple in yoga class soundtracks over the years. In this latest release, what stands out is the degree to which he weaves in other sacred traditions and sounds. “Obsidian” was inspired by musician Nakho Bear and makes you feel like you are in the middle of a tribal ceremony or powwow with its repetitive Native American-inspired vocal calls. “O Haleakala” echoes of wisdom gained from spending time on the islands of Hawaii, leaving listeners with the ‘aloha spirit’ that Hall evokes through lyrics and music.
Chapter of the Forest proves that Trevor Hall has grown tremendously both as a musician and an artist, leaving listeners guessing: what will the next chapter bring?
Reviewed by Vanessa Harris
