The Castle is the debut album from Barcelona based multi instrumentalist, Lewis Pe, that you didn’t know you needed in your life right now.
The talented musician has already released several records in his short career, namely with his psychedelic outfit, Lewis and the Strange Magics. This however, is his first solo project. And all we can do is thank him for it.
Recorded between 2019 and 2020 in Pe’s home studio, the artist takes us on a musical journey through the ages. The golden years of pop-rock specifically, all the while bringing his own unique and fresh sound along for the ride.
Influenced by the likes of The Beatles, Electric Light Orchestra and Pink Floyd, Lewis Pe has crafted an album that both older and younger generations can sink their teeth into.
Opening track, “The Hex” is a true banger from start to finish. A catchy, bouncy tune that sets the mood perfectly for what The Castle has to offer.
“F.W.F” (fair weathered friends, if my interpretation of the song is correct) is beautiful. Pure and simple. A Beatles-y, washed out, dreamy song that showcases Pe’s incredible talent as a multi instrumentalist. Yes! He really does play every instrument that you hear on the album.
“Winter Sun” continues in a similar vein. Inviting and full of warmth, Lewis pens a charming tribute to a loved one. “You’re so wonderful my good friend, like some heat on the coldest day,” proclaims the artist. “You’re my winter sun, so don’t blow away tonight.”
With influences spanning a wide range of genres, the talented musician puts it all on the line, providing the listener a tapas board of delectable offerings. You’ll see what I mean when you hear the incredible instrumental, “Train with Burt” and the album’s title track, “The Castle.”
Pe is also an incredibly talented vocalist, and is able to mix it up whenever needed. Effortlessly transitioning from rock star to pop star and everything in between. “Mountain Top” just continues the solidness that is The Castle. A perfectly arranged and richly layered track, before Pe takes things down a notch with the nostalgic and evocative, “My New Lullaby.”
“Bicycle Girl” is infectious and catchy as hell. It brings back memories of “F.W.F” purely because of its Beatles-y, hazy, dreamy vibe. Enlisting the help of Marta N. Lloret on backing vocals for the album’s last two songs, Pe wraps up The Castle in expert fashion.
The album’s closer, “Sunday Downtown Walks” was shared as a single by Pe before the album was released. I just love that. Sharing the last track of your debut album as a single before its release. Risky, some might say. Genius, if you ask me.
Lewis Pe » The Castle
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This coverage was created in collaboration with Musosoup as part of the #SustainableCurator movement.
