Sophie Hutchings - Echoes In The Valley (2021) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

Sophie Hutchings is a deeply authentic artist that is affected by her surroundings. This directly correlates to Sophie’s rationale around the carefully selected location where she recorded her new works. Nestled in the dramatic valley of the Byron Hinterland mountains, Echoes in the Valley, was organically born. The creation of the solo piano release saw Sophie intentionally remove herself from the chaos and building trauma the world was experiencing. This effort has led to a body of work that finds complete solace in pure simplicity, stripped back to an exposed minimum.

After a decade of releases, Sophie is familiar with the various nuances and routines she needs for complete musical immersion. Earlier this year saw the release of her outstanding Love & Keep EP, which embraced quiet moments found in the life of an insomniac. Recorded in the dark of night, the soundscape captured a trademark calm that Sophie has reflected frequently on, and slowly, expertly refined. Remaining prominent works from Sophie include the touching By Night, that has amassed over 22 million streams on Spotify alone, and the delicately delivered Grace, with streaming numbers nearly doubling that of previous pieces.

Released on the 15th of October, Echoes In The Valley is an exercise in patience, the power found in raw sound and the coherent inspiration that is developed alongside. “I’m always hearing melodies in my head, so it’s very tempting to add layers,” says Sophie. “I was so tempted to put another instrument on it, but had to tell myself, ‘No’.” The only audible accompaniment to the piano is the stroke of keys, push of pedal, and the buzz of the outdoor aroma oozing in. Originally schedule for recording in Berlin, COVID meant plans had to be shifted. However, the futon bed, outdoor shower and rustic timber studio became one with Sophie’s sound and creative process. This allowed Sophie to audibly caress the creaks, clicks and daily birdsong that surrounded her.

TRACKLIST

1 Along The Boundary
2 Billow Gently
3 The Lighthouse
4 Changing Tides
5 Promise Of Sun
6 Empty City
7 I Used To Live Here
8 Written In The Sand
9 Through The Dim Veil Of Sleep
10 Paper Limbs
11 Hold My Hand



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