The debut EP from Fever Fields stirs in its heartfelt songwriting, thematically centering around two soulmates who undergo the loss of their child. Each track represents a stage in their life’s journey, from absolute devastation to the embrace of what remains. The production enamors in its tonal range, from the orchestral melancholy within “Light Years Away” to the expressive, cathartic rock vibrancy of “Seasons Change.” It’s a thoroughly impressive release from Fever Fields, which represents the vehicle of singer/songwriter and producer Duncan Allan.
The opening title track begins with a gorgeous sense of expansion, as lush acoustics traverse seamlessly into heartfelt strings and chirpy brass. Lyrical descriptions of flowers “growing by the sea,” and the comfort of a “nice warm cup of tea,” add to the comforting production. The ensuing “we’re all swimming,” resonates as glistening guitars enter, thematically representative of the human experience — and specifically, two soulmates adrift at sea and reflecting on their first meeting, while also hinting at the day when this life’s journey comes to an end; it’s an impactful showcase of the band’s strong songwriting.
While the commencing track reveals a larger picture in the context of a relationship, the EP also compels in its more specific focuses. The brass-touched exuberance consumes within “Sorrows Won’t Drown Themselves”, alongside lyrics capturing how alcohol serves as a temptation to escape tumult. “Sorrows won’t drown themselves,” the vocals let out, then traversing into the tragedy — regarding the death of one’s child, captured further in the subsequent “Light Years Away.” There, life and death is thematically conveyed, within heartrending strings. The track sends chills in its misty-eyed arrangement and overall perspective, wherein one gazes at the stars and dreams of a reality where their child still exists.
Love, Life and Tragic Comedy is an undeniably heavy album in its overall themes, tackling the most impactful types of loss in one’s journey through existence. The release continues in its emotively affecting successes, finding greater vibrancy and exuberance in “Seasons Change,” asking “how did it all get so messed up?” while also looking toward brighter days alongside sturdy acoustics. “Tulip Fever Fields” concludes the EP with powerful effect, playing as a follow-up to the opener’s introspection. The aforementioned couple finds their love intact following personal strife, finding satiation in their shared existence as dreamy guitars and bright brass intertwine seamlessly. The EP is a stirring success overall, capturing cycles of life and the eternal beauty of relationships in artful, melodic form.
