E.G. Phillips - Tricks of the Light

​E.G. Phillips

Tricks of the Light
self-released; 2025

By Matt Jensen

San Francisco songwriter E.G. Phillips has always written like someone who reads more than he sleeps. On Tricks of the Light, his new six-track EP, that literary bent expands into a lush soundscape shaped by chamber folk, modern classical textures, and a touch of old-world theatricality. Produced by Grammy winners Nahuel Bronzini and Felipe Ubeda, the record features a full ensemble and draws from film scores, mythology, and Phillips' distinct blend of humor and melancholic insight. The comparisons to Nick Cave and Leonard Cohen make sense, but Phillips also plays in his own sandbox.

The opening track, “From the Corner of My Eye,” caught me off guard with how gorgeous the string arrangements are. There is an upright bass that moves like a slow dance, and while Phillips’ vocals aren't flawless, they hit a sweet spot in their vulnerability.

“The Light You Reflect” follows and instantly became a favorite. The strings feel mournful in a way that is oddly comforting. The acoustic guitar speeds things up just enough, and Phillips’ vocal phrasing, which leans toward spoken word, feels measured and intentional. I understood the Cohen comparisons more clearly here.

With “The Albatross Song (Mellow Like),” things shift into something more theatrical. The structure and pacing feel like they belong in a stage production. The lyrics work well in that context, almost like they're made to be seen as much as heard. “The Flesh of Birds” stood out too, partly because of its guitar work, which reminded me of Portuguese folk group Madredeus. The strings continue to carry emotional weight, and the composition feels carefully sculpted.

“The Place Where Tomorrow Shines the Brightest” leans into the idea of storytelling as performance, while “When It Gets Dark” adds a bit of grit. That song moves closer to the terrain of Tom Waits with its hushed drama and worn edges.

​This EP is at its strongest when the full ensemble is allowed to breathe. The arrangements feel thoughtful, the production is crisp, and the emotional intent comes through clearly. Phillips' voice may not be for everyone, but he writes with purpose, and there is something deeply human about these songs that kept me coming back.

Become A Fan

duckswithpants.com

Tweet