Family Stereo releases debut album ‘The Thread’ with single “Waiting On Nina”
Family Stereo, the musical project helmed by singer-songwriter Blake Watt, who happens to be the son of Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt from Everything But The Girl, is gearing up to unveil his debut album titled “The Thread” on 31st July via Bella Union. Today, Watt has treated fans to his latest single, “Waiting On Nina,” along with a visually captivating second visualizer created by Bora Tosun-Stone, a timely release amidst the scorching heatwave we are currently experiencing.
“Waiting On Nina” serves as a poignant country-tinged folk-rock composition revolving around themes of birth and innocence. It delves into the profound impact of bringing new life into the world and emphasizes the importance of remaining receptive to new facets of oneself as one navigates the journey of aging. The addition of Dov Sikowitz’s lapsteel guitar infuses the track with a radiant quality, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that permeates the entire album.
Reflecting on his evolving songwriting style, Watt shares, “I think my writing has been getting more pared-back as I’ve progressed. I find more and more that simple is better. I love telling a story in the simplest way or conveying a feeling in the simplest way, with not too many frills.” This minimalist approach shines through on “Waiting on Nina,” creating an expansive sonic landscape that captivates listeners from start to finish.
The conceptual inspiration for “The Thread” stems from a long-distance relationship, although Watt approaches the lyrical content with a degree of abstraction. He prefers to pose questions rather than provide concrete answers in his songs, striving to capture elusive emotions and grapple with the complexities of human feelings.
Over the course of nine months, “The Thread” was meticulously crafted in the north London studio of producer Sam Hodder-Williams. Hodder-Williams not only oversaw the intricate string arrangements but also contributed to the instrumentation, playing a variety of instruments ranging from acoustic and electric guitar to mandolin and synths. The album features a host of talented collaborators, including Pendo Masote on violin, Tom Allan on banjo, Ella Bleakley on backing vocals, and George Vaux on bass.
With the album release on the horizon, there is eager anticipation surrounding Family Stereo’s upcoming endeavors. Fans can look forward to an immersive musical experience that promises to leave a lasting impact. Pre-orders for “The Thread” are currently available, with a host of UK headline shows scheduled for September in London, Bristol, Manchester, and Glasgow. Family Stereo’s captivating blend of country-tinged folk-rock is certainly a musical act to watch out for in the coming months.