Caught in the Carousel

Peasant

On the Ground
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Peasant

What I find endearing about humble artists, is that they often possess a sincere manner of communicating. They never need to talk others down, nor do they feel the need to talk themselves up. Most importantly as musicians, they are unlikely to overdo things. On the Ground is a very humble offering by Damien DeRose (a.k.a. Peasant). It's been bouncing between my ears for over a week now, and it's already starting to feel like an old friend. Peasant is that nice kid you went to school with, whose name escapes you, nor can you recall any actual conversations you may have had. He is well mannered; he is appropriate. That's right, he has the admirable traits that too often pave the road to obscurity.

DeRose avoids taking risks melodically and keeps the chord progressions very simple, yet he displays a definite knack for understatement. He lulls you into a sense of security, and with delicate timing, he pulls your unsuspecting heart-strings, and strikes a sentimental chord. You know the one, it goes "braaang" and smells like kittens.

The standout tracks for me are "Fine Is Fine" and "Exposure." The yearning vocal over stark background approach works well for DeRose. The title track "On The Ground," is a minimal and tidy Shins-like number. "We're Good" is a testament to the influence of Elliot Smith, and a fine song in its own right, while "Raise Today" is an organ-soaked ballad in 6/8 time that would be the perfect ending to your favourite sad movie.

On The Ground at times feels like it's going to drift off into the abyss of background music, but there's always just enough energy to carry you from song to song. DeRose has found his voice more successfully on some songs than others, but despite this, On The Ground is a collection of great tunes. If you appreciate alt-folk with subtlety and nuance, are a fan of Elliot Smith or just enjoy soft music, you should jolly well enjoy this. It will be of particular interest to those who have a taste for fragile singer songwriters such as Iron and Wine or the late great Nick Drake.

—Mike Crook