Thursday, November 9, 2017

Freedom Souls



Artist: Burlap To Cashmere
Label: B2C Recordings
Release Date: June 23, 2015
Duration: 11 tracks, 40:10


‘Good things come to those who wait’ is a saying which directly relates to Burlap To Cashmere’s (B2C’s) third full release, ‘Freedom Souls’. Why you ask? This release was scheduled for release through Pledge Music, an online tool for gaining sponsorship for new art projects as this album is, in mid-December, 2014. Six months later the album is before us.

Freedom Souls may be the closest to a purely faith-based album as compared to their previous efforts. Steven Delopoulos’ vocals fit each piece so emotionally that every song takes on unique meaning. With Johnny Philippidis’ guitar sometimes taking main stage sometimes understated as the song requires, Theodore Pagano’s solid percussion, and with a new voice for keys throughout, the effort is again outstanding.

Each track flows, reaching new heights or depths of feeling as intended. The lead song “I Will Follow” has an all-American folk feel with a Woody Guthrie vibe storying the Christian story of soul saving. “The Great I Am” is a fast paced message of giving up one’s self to the greater Christian cause.

The album’s namesake, “Freedom Souls”, is for this reviewer the best of B2C. On each of their albums there is a song which puts the listener meditatively in a place of calm and self-awareness. “Tonilou”, one of two songs often included in their live sets, is a story of a conversation between God and one who had lost his way. The percussion, rhythm, electric guitar and keys stand strong. In both “16 Miles” and “Passover”, Delopoulos’ vocals shine.

“Agape Mou”, a powerful tune, showcases Philippidis’ outstanding guitar work with a Mediterranean spirit both energetic and moving. This song has all of the signature sound and feel of B2C. “Brain Fog is a dark and daring song jumping out among the collection both loud and brash pleading for help for loss of faith. “River In My Head”, is Paul Simon-like with rambling melody matched by sharp vocals and distinctive lyrics.

“Dialing God” / “Dialing God (Instrumental)”, is the second of two songs often played in live sets and finally, to the great pleasure of their fans, included on disc. Like ‘Freedom Souls’, “Dialing God” shows a unique side of B2C. Unique Delopoulos prose, harmony of Delopoulos and Philippidis, and the exacting and beautiful guitar work of Philippidis sore.

Many artists find maintaining a consistent message while both growing artistically and offering their newly birthed art to an ever changing, ever hungry audience is too great a challenge. For Burlap To Cashmere, Freedom Souls again highlights their place among peers providing vibrant music with a true message combined with new and unique phrasing and music. Clearly, they have found their path and the wait was definitely worth it.

See the interview with Steven Delopoulos and Freedom Souls concert review in this August, 2015 edition of Phantom Tollbooth.




Scott S Mertens


4.5 tocks

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