Musician: Gabe Close
EP: Leave That Light On
Every once in a while I come across a musician that seems to create magnificent music so effortlessly. The ease of mastering their craft can be heard in their music; this mastery is evident with every beat of the drum, note delicately sung, and guitar string strum. Gabe Close is one such master of music, and his latest six-track EP Leave That Light On features some of the best songs that I have heard in the Americana genre in a long time.
Gabe grew up in Louisville, Kentucky and began his life of performing at an early age. He first performed music in church, where he learned to sing and play guitar. As he grew older, and began to develop his own sound, Gabe was greatly influenced by legends like Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, and Ryan Adams. In 2009, after some time away from his home town, Gabe began his recording career and began playing many venues around Louisville. Leave That Light On is Gabe’s third release and is perfect if you are looking for something easygoing yet thoughtful and sensitive this summer.
Although all six of the tracks on this EP are amazing, there are two that I feel draw attention to Gabe’s talent and diverse sound. “Weary Mind” is the first track on the album and it reminds me of something that I would hear from Blue Rodeo, Blues Traveller, or even Fleetwood Mac. Apart from the steady drums and guitar, the focus of the song is on the singing. Gabe’s vocals are beautiful and the accompanying female voice is a wonderful addition. The harmony between the two voices is astounding. What makes this song even better is the dominant piano, which I am a sucker for, that somehow compliments the singing without overpowering it. I think it is because of the piano that more emphasis is given to the lyrics at important points.
“Everything Reminds Me of You” is the second track on the album and is easily my favourite on this EP. Opening with a piano solo, the song slowly transitions to the lyrics, which are mournful and melancholy, yet the song is surprisingly light and hopeful. The accompanying trumpets and saxophone solo make this track rise above the rest on the EP because of its originality. It is because of Gabe’s unique take on a heart-broken love song that makes this song stand out for me.
The remainder of the tracks are equally magnificent, and I leave it to you to discover them. I will say though that Gabe’s ability to insightfully examine the human heart and soul are a credit to the Americana, Blues, and Singer/Songwriter genres. Leave That Light On is available online and on iTunes.
Samantha Stevens is an aspiring writer who loves combining her love for literature with photography, painting, music, and all creative pursuits.
