Sage of New England, the brainchild of indie-folk singer-songwriter Matthew Hayes Jacobs, returns with the enchanting and introspective EP 'Encounter'. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Woodstock, NY, Jacobs, in collaboration with producer Justin Tracy, unveils a sonic masterpiece that immerses listeners in a world of rich textures and captivating melodies, exploring themes of transformation, compassion, and the profound wisdom found in life's encounters.
'Encounter' presents a beautifully multifaceted and organic sound, rich in melancholy and brought to life through Jacobs' intricate songwriting. With a deft blend of acoustic guitars, subtle synths, strings, grounding bass, and shuffling drums, Sage of New England weaves a tapestry of sonic brilliance across the EP's five tracks. The silky, melancholic vocals, often delicately encased in lo-fi boxy production, create a striking contrast to the cinematic nature of the instrumentation, resulting in a truly mesmerizing auditory experience.
The EP's release is led by the breezy and whimsical opening track, 'Encounter with a Guide'. Jacobs' delicate falsetto vocals guide listeners on a dreamy, ethereal journey through gentle musical interludes, showcasing the solo artist's ability to create spellbinding soundscapes. It serves as a glimpse into the immersive and multi-dimensional nature of the EP as a whole.
Discussing the inspiration behind 'Encounter' Jacobs shares, "Encounter EP is an exploration of transformation, compassion, adventure, and walking the path of a mystic. It's heavily influenced by my spiritual and mental health journey. I want to convey to the listeners what I have learned in my life. My intention with the music and lyrics is to do something that is meaningful, authentic, genuine, and truthful, something our world needs. This EP aims to uplift and comfort while exploring these themes of wisdom."
Jacobs further delves into the inspiration behind 'Encounter with a Guide', stating, "It was inspired by a one-on-one meeting I had with a guru and the insights I gained from it. 'It's not too late,' one of the lyrics in this song, is a reminder that it's never too late to transform, change your life, and do what you love. The door is always open."
The moniker "Sage of New England" originates from an upcoming song scheduled for release in the fall of 2023. This composition narrates the tale of a disillusioned woman in search of inner peace who discovers solace in the guidance of an unexpected companion—a farmer she encounters after relocating to New England. Through this story, Sage of New England emphasizes the importance of embracing wisdom found in unlikely places, inspiring listeners to embrace the transformative power of life's encounters.
Sage of New England's intention is to create music that resonates deeply, evoking introspection and inspiring personal growth. With the release of 'Encounter', this talented solo artist invites audiences on an ethereal journey through restless musical ideas and otherworldly songwriting, leaving a lasting impression and a desire for further exploration.
Listen below:
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