Sometimes, all it takes is a simple acoustic guitar and a voice to create powerful and beautiful music. Nowhere is this more apparent than on Rome’s latest album, Flowers From Exile. Since forming in 2005, singer-songwriter Jerome Reuter and producer friend Patrick Damiani have released 3 albums and 2 Eps. Their latest album is marked by violin player Nikos Mavridis officially joining the group, allowing their unique sound to evolve further.
Flowers from Exile is definitely not what one typically thinks of when imagining singer-songwriter output. The most immediately noticeable part of the album is Reuter’s powerful voice, which is in itself a formidable force on the album. Coupled with Rueter’s vocal chords are unique guitar arrangements and fantastic songwriting. Complex but not cliché appregios replace the tired chord-strumming which many acoustic songwriters revert to.
My opening statement is something of a mischaracterization – Flowers From Exile is not solely a singer with an acoustic guitar. While that is exactly what is at their core, they use many additional elements to add depth and texture. Non-intrusive percussion, various synths, samples, and classical stringed instruments keep the songs interesting and engaging. Not only are the vocals strong, but the lyrics are interesting and well-written. A strangely militaristic vibe pervades throughout the album, carried in part by the lyrics and in part by the composition. The production is also excellent, allowing every instrument to sound clear and full.
In short, almost everything about this album is amazing. I would fully recommend this album to anyone who loves music.
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