A comforting, introspective folk sound stirs on English Silence, the new album from Netherlands-based artist Will Knox. Relatable themes engage throughout, ranging from fatherhood to personal healing. The production, helmed by Ian Grimble in London, masterfully blends trickling acoustics with symphonic elements alongside Knox’s caressing vocals.
Knox wrote the album during lockdown, which provided time for self-reflection and a release of emotions through music. “I realised how difficult I find it to communicate my feelings in the real world, perhaps explaining what has always drawn me to songwriting,” Knox says of that period, which resulted in the excellent English Silence.
English Silence plays like a sympathetic guide to life’s difficult moments, whether it be in the form of loneliness, relationship strife, or self-doubt. Opener “Instant Coffee” enamors in its mixture of lush acoustics and lyrical reminders that healing can take time, while the ensuing “Leave The Light On” sends chills with its “one by one, I try to understand,” contemplations on communication and its complexities. “When you wonder where my love is, leave the light on,” the ethereal vocals plead, hoping for mending and resolution.
A variety of highlights continue throughout. “Body Talk” continues themes of communication, capturing the pain of keeping feelings inside — and relying on hopeful subtleties in physical interactions to provide hints of similar affection. “Just let your hands talk, just let your body talk,” Knox’s vocals implore, artfully capturing a sense of yearning within gorgeous additional vocal additions and vibrant acoustics. English Silence is a stirring folk success from Will Knox.
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The track is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Emerging Indie Folk. Stream the playlist below:
