Heading East is the stirring new album from singer/songwriter SUKH, playing as a meditation on love and its enduring nature. The lyrics emphasize an optimism, from fears of “growing old alone,” on “For the Road” to a celebratory musing on love’s power and discovery. Spanning from twangy folk and rock to synth-forward atmospheres, the production is consistently enjoyable as well — marking a thorough success from SUKH alongside longtime collaborator and producer Rox Capriotti.
“Kind” opens the album with a jangly, introspective quality. “And you’re by my side, heading into the void,” the artist sings amidst twanging guitar complements, beautifully crafting a vision of two lovers taking on the open road together. The “take you home,” reassurance furthers the warming, melodic sound. The ensuing “For the Road” conjures a classic folk engrossment with solemn organs and bustling bass. “Right now my river is freezing,” lyrically conveys a yearning, as the “standing at your door,” conviction arises with bright piano-forward flourishing. Fears of growing older all alone builds into a halted, twangy mid-point — gorgeously crafted in showcasing how companionship can act like a guiding light.
Heading East continues showcasing heartfelt songwriting throughout. “Conquered” is a particular standout for its synth-touched soundscape. Coastal lyrical descriptions and a marveling “look at you,” expression combine with the lush synths and sporadic guitar pulses for a magnetic charm. “Love Atom” follows cohesively, also embracing an electronic-friendly tonal arsenal and smitten lyrical questioning”: “would you follow me, darling, to the edge of doom?” The album’s mid-point stirs in its more synth-friendly disposition, book-ended by classic pop and folk familiarity.
Emotive piano and guitar intertwining shine on “Faith,” reminiscing on first-love memories and a desire to grow older together. The subsequent “Home” casts a nocturnal spell with its creaky guitar movements and “all the stars above,” descriptions, and this carries in lovely form to the finale “If You Are.” Vulnerable vocals speak to the times where one wants to let it all go; times of tumult are chillingly conveyed, and bolstered wonderfully by illuminated keys and multi-layered vocal reflections. “I will be with you, always,” the vocals continue to reassure, mingling piano and synths with atmospheric momentum. “If You Are” is a fantastic send-off to Heading East, a consistently alluring album from SUKH with heartrending depictions of love amidst pop, folk, and rock warmness.
