Singer-songwriter Jeremy Engel released his debut album, “Roam Like A Wave” on November 22.
Jeremy Engel is a Luxembourg singer-songwriter whose evocative blend of folk and rock creates a unique and immersive musical experience. By day, he works as a conference interpreter for the United Nations, and by night, he pours his heart into his music, drawing inspiration from artists like Damien Rice, Rory Gallagher, and Glen Hansard.
My press release tells me that it consists of 12 evocative tracks that delve into the complexities of human experience. The album explores themes of struggle, resilience and the undying spirit of hope. Each song tells a unique story and reflects real-life experiences. Moreover, the beauty of Jeremy Engel voice and melodies gives the listeners a very immersive experience. From haunting harmonies to uplifting rhythms, “Roam Like A Wave” is a coloured path of human emotions. Folk rock is hardly a new and original idea, but in this album, Jeremy Engel can create an innovative music mosaic. With minimal sounds, he achieves the listeners’ soul and concretises his communication need. Jeremy Engel style sounds international as it is characterised by a mix of innovative songwriting elements.
So, as November prepares to leave us and become December, it is time to pop on my folk reviewer hat, I sink into the sofa, pop on the headphones and have a listen!
My Review…
The album has twelve tracks and runs to just over 47 minutes.
“Roam Like a Wave” opens the album and reminded me of a night spent many years ago sitting in this little bar in one of the Scottish Highland Islands where a local band was entertaining and the fire was burning, the drinks flowing and the atmosphere warm where the wind blew outside. It is one of those songs—upbeat, engaging and slightly haunting.
“Beyond My Borders” has a romantic longing, and like all good folk music, it tells a tale to a simple melody. I liked the little background harmonies and the layered instrumental. It was interesting instrumentally, with some sounds of violin and water accompaniment catching this reviewers attention.
“Fall From Your Sky” has a steady drum heartbeat and acoustic guitar to root the vocals. The guitars blend effortlessly into the vocal and the song tells its story in a dreamy fashion.
“Escape Game”—you can clap along to this one! It is music to unwind to, and the production is crisp; it transports the singer and music into my living room as those shadows dance. It’s all about those memories that slip through our fingers all the time.
“She Takes All the Trains” sees Jeremy dance through the night with a ghost in his head. It was interesting lyrically; I found myself listening carefully to the story. Remember, folk music is all about the tale in timeless tradition, and a few ghosts always join us on the journey.
“I Got Caught” is a slight change of direction; its really well crafted and delivered. Each song is written by Engel and he is definitely a very good songwriter in this genre. It doesn’t sound like a debut album; tracks like this ooze confidence and maturity of songwriting. This is a damn good track.
“Secret Place” fits nicely into the album, though it suffered a little as it followed the really strong track “I Got Caught.” As it is, it has a slightly heavier feel, the vocal delivery hitting a nail rather than the more subtle delivery he does so well.
“I Don’t Want to Stay” has a great vibe. This is one that should attract the radio stations; it spins just a little Southern feel into the beat. I was drinking a cup of tea with my listen, but it made me feel like a Bourbon and Coke! It is one that I think would go down so well in that little venue on that Scottish Isle!
“On Your Wire” is the longest track on the album, running at just under five minutes. It is slow, contemplative and mournful, played in with the winds blowing. We return to those dark nights and a violin that cries.
“Shadow Play” tells of those stories and love scenes. It is more traditionally placed as a song, a simple but effective blending of the music and emotion.
“Leave the Shore” was one where I enjoyed the instrumental lying under the lyrics; it had an uplifting feel that I was listening to. It took me to the sea and a certain wildness of winter.
“Get to Know You” closes the album in traditional style, with some pleasing background vocal harmony.
In summary, this is what folk music should sound like in 2024. I find it so impressive that this was a debut album, as it shows such songwriting maturity. It absolutely exists for your listening pleasure.
Standout Tracks: “Roam Like a Wave.” “I Got Caught” and “Escape Game.”
And I hope you liked the review, dear reader! If you did, please check out the other pages of the magazine; we have many great features, merchandise, editorials and even poetry! We work hard for you, and if you want to show some appreciation and support what we do, then do use the Support Us link below and buy me a coffee! Always appreciated.
The artist website is here
You can stream music by Jeremy Engel here
By Lorraine Foley