Halls

Halls sounds like a memory being played back in an empty theater. The music is defined by its immense sense of space, where Samuel Howard's fragile, breathy vocals are often buried under layers of cavernous reverb and shimmering electronic textures. It is music that feels both intimate and distant, like a secret whispered from the other side of a large, dark room.

What sets Halls apart is the evolution from the 'skitter-step' digital anxiety of his early work to the organic, human warmth of his later recordings. He masterfully incorporates the sounds of the environment, such as the faint hum of London traffic or the natural acoustics of a Woolwich theater, making the listener feel physically present in the space where the music was captured. It is a masterclass in using atmosphere as a primary instrument.

Start with the album 'Ark' to experience the peak of his isolationist, electronic-heavy sound. If you prefer something more grounded and orchestral, 'Love To Give' offers a more hopeful, human perspective with its use of brass and organs. Both are essential for anyone who finds beauty in the intersection of ambient soundscapes and emotive songwriting.