Originally Published in BetreutesProggen.de
On September 23, 2024
Text by Flohfish
Read the original article in German here.

Alex Henry Foster – A Measure Of Shape And Sounds

(43:01; vinyl, CD, digital; Hopeful Tragedy Records (self-released), September 20, 2024)

No noise rock, no post hardcore and no indie rock. No prog, no singer/songwriter and very little post rock.

There is little of the mix of styles that is so typical for Alex Henry Foster on this recording. Nevertheless, “A Measure Of Shape And Sounds” is an album that unmistakably bears the signature of the Canadian artist, or rather breathes his spirit. The only difference is that Foster’s feelings, which he has always expressed so forcefully on his records, are not conveyed here through his lyrics, but through instrumental ambient soundscapes that use stylistic elements such as drones and field recordings and incorporate influences from neo-classical, score music and post rock. Staged by Foster once again together with his long-time collaborator Ben Lemelin, “A Measure Of Shape And Sounds” is a sound journey in which quiet tones and minimalism determine the mood.
The Kantine is slowly filling up. Since the sky couldn’t quite decide on a weather pattern today and is more likely to use the notorious April weather on this summer evening, the organizers of the Kantine Cologne, in cooperation with the music magazine Visions, have moved the concert by Alex Henry Foster & The Long Shadows from the beer garden to the inside as a precaution. It is the crowning conclusion of a European tour that is very important for the band and especially for the frontman.
For the first time since his critical, ten-hour heart operation at the beginning of last year, Alex Henry Foster is finally able to stand on stage again this summer with his five bandmates and do what his heart beats for most – forgive the simplistic metaphor: music. It is clear that he is filled with gratitude and is practically overflowing with happiness. Here stands someone who celebrates life – together with his band and together with his fans. And he and the band have a lot of them! The fans are more than just fans, they form a real community with Alex Henry Foster & The Long Shadows with clear familial traits. They have traveled from all over today for this special final concert, which is also free. A loving gesture from the band that proves that the joy and gratitude are real and want to be shared.
One might have assumed that Foster’s decision to make this instrumental album (just like the decision to have Momoka Tobari sing on the previous album “Kimiyo”) was due to the temporary loss of his voice, but that is not correct, because the decision was made consciously and not under duress. In any case, the fact is that “A Measure Of Shape And Sounds” expands the universe of Alex Henry Foster with new facets. Facets that are as unknown as they sound familiar.
With these meditative soundscapes, it takes some time to be able to guess which part of his inner emotional world, or which experiences and perceptions, the musician wants to share with the outside world. The titles of the individual pieces only help to a certain extent in understanding them. It’s good that there are at least explanations from the artist for the singles on the album, such as in ‘Cinematic Insight’.

The song gravitates around the conceptual notion of intimate and reflective meditations. It evokes a certain form of musing sobriety, if not a contemplative composure, towards the perception we have of ourselves as opposed to what we need to believe we have become with time passing by. Based on the idea that, on various degrees, we’re all part projection, idealization, deception and illusion in regards to our distinctive conditions, it offers an introspective invitation to outgrow our pretension, denial and make-believe through a current of honesty, acceptance, and let go.

And yet the album leaves more room for your own interpretations at the end. Which is really nice, because this second part of his “Voyage à la Mer” can become a very personal journey for each individual listener.

Personally, I prefer not to think too much about the message of the pieces and just let the music work. A wonderful soundtrack to simply unwind.

Rating: 11/15 points

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