Released August 15th 2011.
2011 was the year I left school and began preparing for college. This summer was vital. I was preparing for the rest of my life, following the plan I had so carefully pieced together in my head (or so I thought I had). I’d always been a fan of Charlie Simpson – from Busted to Fightstar, so I was very excited by the release of his solo album. It was refreshing. So different to both Busted and Fightstar, I felt Charlie was really showcasing his musical talents and with three separate genres now under his belt, Charlie’s album fascinated me. Truthfully it still kinda does now. I love the husk in his voice, his guitar playing throughout the album is skillful yet matches each vibe given by each individual song and it’s story. I feel like this album is raw, gets right down to it. I not only mean his voice, which always has that air to it, but the feeling and emotion featured throughout.
I can listen to this album whatever mood, however there are certain songs I listen to specific to my mood. For example, when I’m feeling vulnerable and reclusive Riverbanks is my choice. I think because it’s lyrics read “just open your eyes, something beautiful is happening” makes me stop and think. Sometimes we all need a little reminder of that whether it’s because the world seems cruel, life seems too hard or everything seems to be going wrong, there is actually something beautiful out there. Something like a baby taking its first steps for an exhausted parent, someone accomplishing something they were told they wouldn’t ever do, or even a siblings beautiful smile on a rainy day. As much as the music feels deep and down Riverbanks builds a little bit of hope in me, that helps me feel I can make something, or appreciate something beautiful at least once on that day of reclusive feelings.
Young Pilgrim has helped me through many things in the last four years and I can’t wait to continue to listen to something so passionate and skill-fully put together for another four or more years. If you haven’t already I recommend you check out this album; it’ll be more than worth it.
Music n What Not 