Benjamin Charles - “When”
Los Angeles-based Benjamin Charles has just released the exceptional acid folk track “When.”
Benjamin Charles is an artist that pays homage to the greats of traditional psychedelic music, yet manages to create a sound that is strikingly unique. I detect the echoes of the trippier, strung out end of Donovan, The Beatles, Nick Drake, and John Martyn’s catalogue - but even those comparisons fall way, way short of the true essence of his sound.
The arrangement to “When” is incredibly minimalistic. It is boldly stripped back, relying solely on acoustic guitar and vocals. The outcome is something that is extraordinarily intimate, introspective, and haunting. The listener is truly being led on an immersive and compelling sonic journey. Armed with only the tools of guitar and vocal, it underlines the depth and weight to Benjamin Charles’ musical talent.
The song unfolds with an acoustic guitar groove that places emphasis on the bass notes. This beautifully highlights the melody, but also the introspective feel of the track. What sets “When“ alight is the well-arranged vocal that places an emphasis on melody and cadence. The performance is tinged with a sense of gentle but raw emotion. At the halfway mark, the vocals begin to infuse the song with gorgeous psychedelic vibes. A second vocalist joins, introducing a sense of elevation and urgency. Underneath, backing vocals create an almost meditative chant-like feel. There is a spiritual feeling of release and realisation.
The artist says: “This song was the spark that led to writing a whole album. It was written in a crisis - I would sing it to myself like an incantation to move me out of a well of fear and despair I was in at the time. I'd just moved thousands of miles to a new city. I was living in motels, trying to find my place and purpose in the world and be kind and loving in the process. “When” is what came out of that.”
Benjamin Charles has crafted a truly mesmerising and vibrant track with “When.” The song will make the perfect addition to any acid folk lover’s playlist.