Displaced Stranger's 'Grounding' is a stunning DIY breakthrough

There are debut albums, and then there are moments of arrival. Under the name Displaced Stranger, Don Sullivan delivers the latter with 'Grounding', a self-built, self-performed, self-produced statement that feels astonishingly assured for a first outing. Crafted entirely from his home studio in Lynden, Washington, this is the sound of an artist discovering his voice and running with it.

What makes 'Grounding' so exciting is its fearless independence. Every guitar line, every rhythmic pulse, and every vocal take carries the imprint of one person chasing a vision without compromise. And instead of feeling insular, the result feels expansive.

Highlight 'Golden Hour' is pure magic. Written in a burst of inspiration, it captures the quiet awe of witnessing something beautiful and fleeting. The guitar shimmers with a gentle radiance, and his vocal delivery lands with an effortless sincerity that pulls you in immediately.

Perhaps the most exhilarating part of 'Grounding' is knowing this is the artist's first recorded project. There’s a hunger in it, and a sense of someone realising what’s possible and refusing to hold back. Inspired in part by the evocative character of Northern California whiskey releases, the album carries a subtle thematic richness that adds to its charm.

In all, 'Grounding' feels like the start of something that’s only going to grow bigger, bolder, and even more refined. Displaced Stranger may be new to the game, but on this evidence, he’s already found his swagger.