Julian Taylor
Beyond the Reservoir
(Howling Turtle, Inc.)
4/5
Toronto-based singer/songwriter Julian Taylor’s seventh album, Beyond the Reservoir, fills all the holes left vacant by current top 10s in the music industry. It feels like a Canadian album, in a good way. In 10 tracks, Taylor demonstrates the importance of impactful storytelling in music.
The stand-out track, both instrumentally and lyrically, is “I am a Tree.” Although Taylor’s vocals on this track aren’t as strong as on others, his use of visuals and simple metaphors well make up for it. The mixing of violin and vocals adds an element of inspiration to the song, a theme he continues throughout the album.
Although some songs do run a little long, the first track, “Moonlight,” is addicting enough to put that complaint aside. This song is the perfect start to such a strong album, as it sets a good tone and encapsulates the beauty and authenticity found throughout Beyond the Reservoir.