Somewhat of a departure from earlier recordings and representing an expansion of the ideas explored on last album The Shepherd’s Dog, the record saw Beams often stripped-back compositions development into ornate arrangements. Live performances also saw Beam joined by a cast of musicians, helping flesh out his sound.
For this beautifully rendered 4AD Session, Beam made the conscious decision to return to his roots. Taking those album tracks back to their nascent form, Beam delivers five acoustic performances that immediately make clear the craft and care that constitutes each Iron & Wine track. Pushed to the fore is Beams languorous vocals, showcasing the seemingly effortless ease with which he is able to imbibe his music with a nuanced poetry.
Filmed at Miloco Recording Studios in Bermondsey in March 2011, the location proved truly fitting of the performance. Beam found himself surrounded by an array of vintage analogue equipment, a perfect compliment to the down-home wood-and twine classic songwriting that has continued to characterize the work of Iron & Wine over the course of four albums.
Playing four songs from the new album, long time fans will also note the inclusion of the ‘Upwards Over The Mountain’, a track drawn from the bands much-loved back catalogue.
See the full Iron & Wine 4AD session here:
