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With its quiet confidence and sleeper status, Will Stratton‘s 2007 debut, What the Night Said, was one of those records a listener feels downright blessed to come across, the humble but unmistakable announcement of a singular talent arriving. At nineteen, Stratton already appeared a mastermind, pairing a powerful command of lyricism with potent songwriting and a producer’s sense of how to best animate his compositions with depth and deft. Now twenty-two and nearing the end of his collegiate studies at Bennington, Stratton is prepared to release what will undoubtedly be another critically lauded effort, the pensive yet pleasant No Wonder. While the November 3rd release on Stunning Models on Display is guaranteed to sweep listeners off their feet, here’s hoping it reaches more ears than its predecessor.
It would be ridiculous to ask for a better opening to No Wonder than the gorgeous “Who Will,” which simultaneously brings back the Nick Drake comparisons reviewers of his debut were so fond of drawing while showcasing Stratton as a songwriter whose ideas and execution easily debunk any facile analogizing. Over a low tide of acoustic guitars, twinkling piano keys, and brushed snares, he opens with a simple question: “Who will save our souls? There’s so much left to do.” The thematic terrain does not stray too far from this initial query as Stratton meditates on the dueling desires for self-sufficiency and being comforted.
As “Who Will” progresses, the instrumentation becomes increasingly complex. Heavenly female background vocals form a fringing glow around Stratton’s. Trumpets and strings buoy the arrangement, rippling through and lending a greater emotional heft to the proceedings. It is about as ambitious–and successful–as a musician or producer could ever hope to be within the three minute pop song structure, and Stratton makes it all feel as effortless as a wonderful dream. “Who Will” feels as light as it is substantial, and makes it clear for anyone who will listen (yet again), that Stratton is a gifted talent who has the tenacity to deliver on the grand scope of his vision.
(247 votes, average: 8.71 out of 10)
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September 21st, 2009 at 9:31 am
This song is amazing! He has a very calming voice with sincere lyrics. Very good for a mellow background sound as well as a good song to listen to when you need something to calm you down if you listen to the song. It has a good simple rhythm to it as well.
September 21st, 2009 at 10:11 pm
It’s a lovely little song.
September 22nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm
Yay will. You’re awesome. I really enjoy all of your music and can’t wait to hear more.
September 23rd, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Will, remember that time we were playing spin the bottle and I told you you were really great? I meant it.
September 26th, 2009 at 4:10 pm
While a lot of new songwriters get compared to Nick Drake, I think he is the first person I’ve heard who actually deserves that awesome comparison. I’d love to hear more from the album.
December 6th, 2009 at 11:19 am
I keep coming back to listen to this; sorry to have missed him in Booklyn recently
March 10th, 2010 at 4:33 pm
love it. come to switzerland to play!
April 17th, 2010 at 10:33 am
wow that is awesome and on my b-day yet!
April 17th, 2010 at 10:34 am
Someone call Ellen he is very good.