September 30
Words by Erin Eddy
Juno nominated multi-instrumentalist Lindsay Schoolcraft is celebrating a milestone, with the forthcoming 10th anniversary of her debut solo album, Rushing Through The Sky.
The gothic singer/songwriter has remastered the record for re-release to mark the occasion, as well as making it available on 12” vinyl for the first time. Vinyl enthusiasts will be pleased to know that anyone ordering from Lindsay’s official store will receive a signed copy plus a free download of the 2022 version of December Rain.
I will preface my review by admitting that I had never listened to the original release, I’m ingesting this as though it were a brand-new album. Now, this is not to say that I am unfamiliar with Lindsay Schoolcraft. As a Cradle Of Filth fan, I am certainly acquainted with Lindsay and her talents, and in recent times I have paid more attention to what she’s been up to as a solo artist and really enjoyed tracks such as Stolen Light and New World.
As I settled down and pressed play on Rushing Through The Sky the first thought that ran through my mind was “gee, this is a whole lot more mellow than all the aggressive music I’ve been spinning lately” and if I’m being honest, it’s a welcome reprieve that I didn’t even realise I required.
The second thing that struck me about this record is that it doesn’t sound in any way dated. Though 10 years may have passed since it was first conceived, there is nothing about the songs that tie them to a specific period in time, and I believe this is a testament to great talent and great song composition.
These songs are incredibly beautiful. Lindsay’s vocal delivery is hauntingly emotive and together with the sweeping orchestral sections, enchanting piano and ethereal harp, I found myself with goosebumps. Lindsay possesses a voice that is powerful while still maintaining a delicacy to her delivery, and this really draws you into the emotions of her lyrics.
The record is seven songs long. A terrible record can make seven songs feel like 20. In this instance, the seven songs were over quite quickly; this is an easy album to sit through, however I do think it’s a “mood album,” best played if you’re feeling a little sombre, whimsical or getting in touch with your inner forest nymph.
If, like me, you’re in need of a palate cleanser in the form of something a little softer and gentle, then you might enjoy Rushing Through The Sky.
