Spiralling Melodies, Twangy Guitars and Soulful Songwriting: The bedroom-produced debut album from Rainn Byrns, 'New In Town'

lloydbolton52

Nov 29

The newly released debut captures the best what we have heard from the singer-songwriter up to this point, channelling diverse influences into a collection warmed by an analogue haze.

Photos: Nicole Olivetti | Words: Otis Hayes

Rainn Byrns' self produced debut album, 'New In Town', has arrived via Futureproof records. It is filled with what all that we have come to expect from the lo-fi, indie musician since his 2021 debut EP, 'Country Living'. Vocal melodies flow over jangling guitars, pulsating drums and deep, resonant bass with a certain vulnerability conveyed through Byrns signature blend of honesty meets humour.

The debut long player begins with title track 'New In Town'. Clocking in at just under two-and-a-half minutes and sets the tone through with expressive lyrics about being somewhere new and new and unfamiliar, and telling of how hope can turn into self-doubt. Next track 'Big' picks up with a faster tempo, shuffling drums supplying the beat for Rainn to lay down spiralling vocal melodies and twangy guitar. 'How Can I Get You Out Of My Life', a recut of Byrns' first ever release gives space for drums and bass to shine as they supply choppy fills and expressive licks through the tracks tempo changes and pauses. Fourth track 'I'm Her Man' is an upbeat, groove-laden song with funky guitar rhythm and is perfectly placed for the next song 'House' to come in with its moodier feel and darker approach about longing for your own space to dwell.

Side 2 of the record kicks off with 'Never Ending Story', a song all about how the South London songwriter dreads the neverending repetition of life but must look towards the positive. 'Big Boy Boots' slows things down with trippy undertones before 'Tailspin' lifts us slightly back up through its faster pace, however in contrast Rainn's melancholy lyrics still keep you things grounded. 'Homeward Bound' and 'Looking Glass' continue the themes showcased on 'New In Town' expressing views on sustaining relationships and what the future may bring. Closing the album, 'Leaving Town' is short yet impactful and sums up the album in a nutshell. It establishes a defining impression of moving on to something new, sad to say goodbye to something that will soon become old.

The first full length effort from Rainn shines with impactful songwriting and was recorded at his home studio in Peckham. Impressivelly, he played and recorded all the instruments himself using exclusively analogue equipment. With inspirations cited as Brazilian music from the 1920's to the 1970's, Haroumi Hosono, Jonathan Richman and Lou Reed, Rainn clearly has an eclectic taste which comes across in 'New In Town', the a debut which also reminds me very much of Mac DeMarco. If you are a fan of his be sure to give it a spin!