Performing an EP launch gig in a stylish, community-driven south London café feels like the right choice for Lex Vervain. His music is comfortable, heartwarming and evocative, a slice of simplicity delivered with incredible pathos and meaningful lyricism. ‘Lex Vervain’ is the project’s self-titled EP, a record that helps us get closer to the British troubadour. Drenched in acoustic tones and liminal, witty sound design, ‘Lex Vervain’ feels like a truly personal endeavour, a slice of pure, unfiltered artistry that we’ll all have to reckon with, sooner or later.
Packing six wonderful tracks (including a live version of ‘Fading’), the EP sees Vervain team up with producer Joseph Futak (Lilo, Tapir, Baggio Band, Luce Rushton, among others). Together, Lex and Joseph produce a record that’s personal and minimal in its sonic formula, yet also rich in textures and understated soundscapes. A soft, emotional acoustic guitar is paired with Vervain’s stunningly nuanced vocals, lo-fi grooves, and atmospheric tones. It’s all quite eclectic.
If ‘Swollen Sanctuary’ finds its unmistakable identity in slow-paced, cathartic vocals and a fleeting guitar, ‘Digital Sink’ is way more eloquent, with a spacious piano helping create a dramatic background for Lex’s bold lyricism, here served with ferocious dedication and rowdy character. ‘Made in Heaven’ is probably our favourite episode in the record; Echoing early ‘2000 indie outfits, the song feels hopeful and lovable, a true gift for any like-minded listener out there.
Recommended! Discover ‘Lex Vervain’ on Spotify:
