Even before you get to the music, there are a number of interesting factors that are woven into the story of Winded, the debut album from Patrick Keller. For a start, the term debut album implies someone just starting, but here it actually marks a return to music after many years away.
Then there is the fact that every instrument found woven through this blend of finessed folk and understated rock comes from his own hand. But the most compelling element is the message behind this suite of sweet, sweet songs. As he explores those spaces between heartache and healing, the battle and the beauty, the weight and the wonder of life, his songs are reminders that life is hard, but so too is it rewarding, amazing, beautiful, and that no matter how difficult it gets, you are not alone.
If songs like “Bloom” run on a mix of groove and grace, it is to the latter that much of the album leans; the songs are generally more understated and gentle. “I Believe You” is the perfect example of this erring towards poise and poignancy over punch and power, a sonically gorgeous and gorgeously life-affirming piece. “Where Silence Feels Safer” shimmers with a cinematic dream-pop glow; the title track is restrained and rather lovely, a mesh of chiming piano and strummed acoustic guitar, and “The Road” is a fantastic bit of soul-searching.
It takes a lot to stand out in the folk/folk-rock world, especially in an age where we label any gap-year troubadour with a wide-brimmed hat, acoustic guitar, and working knowledge of A minor as the next big folk thing. Winded stands out from the pack. Patrick Keller is the real deal.
