Nic Olsen, the mastermind behind Sonofold, needs no introduction. Known for his work on The Parlotones’ “Push Me to the Floor,” he has also fronted the band Perez amongst other notable accomplishments. Now, following his self-titled 2020 release, Sonofold returns with the impressive Echoes from a Silent Hill.
Echoes from a Silent Hill is an effortless listen from start to finish, and right from the beginning, it’s clear that this album is crafted with the precision that comes from years of experience in the music industry.
Produced by local legend Theo Crous, the album doesn’t have specific themes. Instead, Sonofold explains, “This record represents where I was at the time, and is inspired by those close to me and the people I have met over the years, some of whom are no longer around.”
This personal sentiment resonates deeply in tracks like “Saint Sinner,” a folky exploration of human complexity that showcases Olsen’s lyrical depth. Another standout, “Take Me Down the River,” channels Beck’s “Paper Tiger” with its melancholic groove, flowing melodies and lyrics that mirror life’s unpredictable tides. The transition between tracks feels organic, creating a cohesive sonic journey where each song builds on the emotions from the last.
While the album is primarily rooted in alternative folk and surf rock, it also showcases a range of musical influences that add to its richness. On “Kaymen Eyes,” Sonofold shifts to a pop-inspired sound, with shimmering melodies and a focus on his distinctive vocal delivery, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
“Sunshine” featuring backing vocals from Crous and instrumental contributions from Foo Fighters’ keyboardist Rami Jaffee stands out as one of the album’s highlights. Sonofold describes “Sunshine” as particularly special, recalling the fun he had with Crous during its creation, noting that it helped set the tone for the entire project.
“I guess over all I have a feeling that I have found my voice, which is something I can work with moving forward,” says Olsen. “With more of me included, Sonofold as a project now has something to build on.”
This sense of self-discovery results in a dazzling and honest album, both introspective and inviting. On what he hopes listeners will take from the project, Olsen simply says, “It is really hard to gauge how people respond to music, but so far the response has been really good, so I am happy.”
Beyond impressive collaborations and a legendary producer, Echoes from a Silent Hill reaffirms Sonofold’s significant impact on the local music scene over the past two decades. But, and you may find this hard to believe, it hints that the best is yet to come.
