Yoke Lore "Toward A Never Ending New Beginning" Review

Los Angeles-based Adrian Galvin, performing as Yoke Lore views his debut album as a “book of change”. The 14-track album explores the highs, the lows, and the moments of stillness along the way. Whether this is the first time listening to his music or not, there is a distinct promise in the words and the music being shared, there is so much more to come in life. 

“Cruciform I” opens the album with an atmospheric and weightless vibe, lyrics that expose the fear associated with the start of something new.  The lead-off transitions effortlessly into the undulating rhythm throughout the remainder of the tracklist. Lifting the momentum and keeping it going, “Shake” is most reminiscent of Yoke Lore’s earlier music, the affectionate lyrics paired with smooth vocals to create a golden hour feeling. A string of tracks featuring sorrowful banjo and heartfelt lyrics - “Alone”, “Fight”, and Winona - possess a sense of acceptance and hope for the future. With the drums and percussion intensifying to close the track, it almost feels like the rush from something new and exciting. The final track, “Protégé”, returns to the atmospheric and weightlessness from “Cruciform I” with vocals that deliver the shimmering optimism that comes after the fear has passed.

While the synth could be overwhelming at times, it didn’t take away from the emotional effect of the album. The attention to the composition and distribution of celebration, sadness, and reflection throughout the tracklist doesn’t dwell in one emotion more than the others. That banjo present on several of the tracks makes for a familiarity with the sound that fans of Yoke Lore can appreciate while embracing what may come next. Toward A Never Ending New Beginning carries with it an ethereal feeling perfectly matched for the softening sunlight of a fall season soundtrack.

8/10