Salt Lake City-born singer-songwriter Caleb Darger’s Fault Line is a deeply introspective and poignant 12-track album that circulates various moments that touched the artist. From losing faith and maneuvering love to commenting on political issues and environmental topics, we get thorough storytelling in shades of 60s and 70s Americana, folk, and indie.
Fault Line opens with “Gideon,” as it evolves from gentle guitar strumming and slow organ wails into a Fault Line by Caleb Darger: Album Reviewsubtle surge in Darger’s vocal range. The soft beat adds a touch of catchiness to the introspective lyrics, which explore themes of doubt, loss of faith, and seeking comfort in times of uncertainty.
“A Lot to Tell You” sees Darger’s high, soothing vocals supported by background harmonies that give the song an anthemic yet grounding energy. The lyrics reflect the struggles and miscommunications in relationships.
Driven by gentle piano melodies and soulful vocals, “Terminal” stands out. Yet, he keeps the thread of similarity held with the tender organ trails and steady drumbeat as Darger reassures his partner that they don’t need to change with a delivery that makes you swoon bad enough to make you roll your eyes to the back of your head.
The harmonica solo in Doug Fir brings a clean, fresh change and a rustic charm to Fault Line. The album closes with Coraline, which reflects on memories and the passage of time with a haunting, introspective instrumental perspective and melancholy tone. The instrumental simplicity helps the focus remain on Darger’s lyrics. The standout lines, “Every page I turn / There’s a memory to burn,” help us see the most vulnerable side of the artist as he spins Fault Line to its mournful end.
Listen to Fault Line to note how music can spin stories better than a book with Caleb Darger. Live performances are coming up, so stay tuned.
KEEP IN TOUCH:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | BANDCAMP | TIKTOK | WEBSITE | YOUTUBE
Review by: Naomi Joan