The Keening, the solo music project of Rebecca Vernon, has released the 'Little Bird' album through Relapse Records, featuring a collection of dark folk and chamber doom compositions. The release includes multiple formats such as CD, cassette, and limited edition 2XLP versions.
Album Production and Recording
The album, titled 'Little Bird,' was recorded in December 2020 at Hallowed Halls in Portland, Oregon. Vernon composed much of the material during a retreat in Joshua Tree and at a family homestead in Kamas, Utah. The recording process was led by producer Billy Anderson, who collaborated with Vernon and drummer Nathan Carson of Witch Mountain to co-produce the tracks.
Anderson's production credits include work with artists such as Melvins, Neurosis, and Swans. The album features contributions from various session musicians, including violinist Andrea Morgan of Exulansis, Eight Bells, and Aerial Ruin. Following the recording, the project was completed in July 2021, with mixing by Anderson and mastering by Justin Weis at Trakworx in San Francisco.
Musical Style and Background
The Keening represents a transition for Vernon, who previously served as the owner, lead singer, guitarist, and primary songwriter for the Salt Lake City-based band SubRosa. Vernon concluded that 13-year project in 2018 to focus on her solo work.
Musically, The Keening incorporates lush orchestration and themes described as American Gothic sensibilities and murder ballads. The arrangements utilize a variety of instruments, including flute, strings, harp, French horn, piano, organ, and hammered dulcimer to create a dark, shimmering folk sound.
Available Formats
Relapse Records is offering several limited edition versions of the 'Little Bird' 2XLP. These include a custom 'Butterfly Effect with Splatter' edition limited to 135 copies, a 'Metallic Gold and Sea Blue Merge' edition limited to 235 copies, and a standard 'Metallic Gold' 2XLP.
Artistic Themes
The project's sound is characterized by ultra-melodic forays into themes such as secret crimes and jeweled cages. While the music is described as having dark elements, the compositions are noted for maintaining a sense of light amidst the chamber doom and haunted melodies.
Transition from SubRosa
The release of 'Little Bird' follows the conclusion of Vernon's tenure with SubRosa, a project that spanned over a decade before she began writing her first solo album shortly after her departure from the band.
Merchandise and Access
The 'Little Bird' release is available for order through Relapse Records, with options ranging from digital streaming to physical media including T-shirts and various vinyl configurations.
Orchestral Elements
The instrumentation of The Keening's work distinguishes it from Vernon's previous musical endeavors, utilizing a wide array of orchestral and folk instruments to build its signature atmosphere.
