Swamp Eyes - Something’s in the Hall

Swamp Eyes

Something’s in the Hall
self-released; 2023

4.1 out of 5 - TOP ALBUM

By Matt Jensen

The album Something’s in the Hall by Swamp Eyes is a poignant artistic expression that delves into the profound emotions experienced by a parent when confronted with an unexpected diagnosis and its subsequent challenges. Sam Kuban, the artist behind Swamp Eyes, found inspiration from personal experiences when his seventeen-month-old child was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Both in its lyrics and musical composition, this album revolves around the interconnectedness of adversity and acceptance, as well as the juxtaposition between beauty and ugliness. Through an innovative blend of chaotic folk elements, the listener is invited to immerse themselves in a tense dichotomous realm, where haunting fingerstyle guitar harmonizes with bursts of frenetic disarray, creating a uniquely satisfying experience.

The first song is entitled “Trash Palace” and there’s a lot of different styles here. It sounded a bit like the band Grizzly Bear if they were a little more punk. The song is quite beautiful and haunting. There’s a lot going on in a good way. The dynamics were great from the soft warm harmonies to the explosive Wolf Parade like moments. I thought this was a good way to open the album.

“Wait For The Lights” is on point. The drumming is very inventive here. It makes the groove unique. There’s this juxtaposition between elements that I found engaging. I loved the intimate moments on this song as well and how the energy could suddenly change. The range is certainly impressive.

“Dig A Hole” sounded like this different approach to a gospel song in some ways. The vocals in particular have this soulful revival feeling. Similar to the previous song there’s an interesting exploration of dynamics with some moments that are pure energy. Wow - what a song.

“The Farm Up North” is a stripped back song but with some exceptional guitar playing. I also loved the way effects like reverb and delay were used. “Mess Maker” is gorgeous. The vocal harmonies in particular were incredible against the instrumental elements and laid back country flavor. “Scurry” was a highlight amongst highlights and reminded me of a band called The Local Natives.

“Eat Us” is another master class on dynamics and how to use effects subtly. There are great lyrics across this release but “Cracks getting wider / Smoke billows higher / Preventable fire / We’re gonna let it happen / We’re gonna let it happen / We’re gonna make it happen” might be my favorite. Last up is a great intimate closer entitled “Cheers.”

​Talent is dripping from every angle on his release. There’s a lot of originality here and Kuban makes it feel easy. It’s not but it is one of the best releases I've heard this year.

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