Review: Jonathan Hultén – Eyes Of The Living Night

Jonathan Hultén

Eyes Of The Living Night

Kscope

In his latest offering, “Eyes of the Living Night”, Jonathan Hultén continues to craft an intimate musical landscape that exists somewhere between folk meditation and gothic reverie full of rich imagery and profound depth.  Set for release on January 31st, 2025, this collection of songs further establishes Hultén’s unique position in the modern folk scene, where minimalism meets theatrical presentation.

The album opens with “The Saga and the Storm”, setting the tone for what’s to come – a journey through Hultén’s characteristically ethereal soundscapes. Armed with a wonderful collection of instruments and haunting vocals, he creates expansive worlds within the confines of sparse instrumentation.

“Falling Mirages” is a testament to Hultén’s songwriting prowess. It weaves together acoustic folk with carnivalesque elements and music box delicacy. The track explores the fragility of relationships and the weight of unspoken words, demonstrating his ability to translate complex emotional landscapes into musical narratives.

Songs like “Afterlife” and “Through the Fog, Into the Sky” continue the album’s exploration of metaphysical themes, with Hultén’s ethereal vocals floating above intricate guitar work. Each track feels like a carefully constructed ritual, fitting perfectly with his stage presence, where flowers and incense create an immersive, soulful experience.

A surprising turn comes with “Star Bather”, where Hultén tips his hat to classic rock influences, particularly Queen while maintaining his distinctive gothic folk foundation. This unexpected fusion is a refreshing counterpoint to the album’s otherwise contemplative nature.

“Eyes of the Living Night” is not just an album – it’s a carefully curated journey through shadow and light. While maintaining the mysterious atmosphere his followers have come to expect, this album marks a significant evolution in Hultén’s sonic palette. Where his previous work embraced stark minimalism, “Eyes of the Living Night” introduces a richer instrumental landscape that cradles his compositions without overshadowing their essence.

Despite adding these new musical elements, Hultén’s voice – that spectral instrument – remains the gravitational centre of each piece. His vocals are almost alchemical, transforming even the most elaborately arranged passages into intimate confessions. It’s a delicate balance that proves Hultén’s artistic maturity in knowing precisely when to let the arrangements bloom and when to let the silence speak. The result is a collection that demands active listening, rewarding those who take the time to sink into its depths with new layers of meaning and emotional resonance.

For fans of introspective folk, gothic aesthetics, and thoughtfully crafted musical narratives, “Eyes of the Living Night” offers a compelling addition to Hultén’s discography. It’s an album that doesn’t just ask to be heard – it asks to be experienced.

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Review By Rebecca Bush