Syndarian’s soft-spoken delivery and rich lyrics pave the way for an immersive listen that’s musically coherent, like a minimalist theatre drama, that continues to steadily develop with each passing chapter. Time Away is a gorgeous listen that takes us on a journey inside the mind of the talented Syndarian.
Syndarian is a musician, producer, singer, and songwriter based in Hibbing, Minnesota. Time Away is the title of Syndarian’s latest collection of gentle, guitar-driven indie pop ballads that take us along a journey with Syndarian from innocence to loss of it, to acceptance of the way things are. This conceptual album is short and concise and delightful. The songs are built mostly around a few layers of guitars that support Syndarian’s vocal deliveries, which are effortless and efficient. Listening to Time Away is an easy experience that does not take long to become immersive and engulfing.
Recorded and produced at home, using minimal recording equipment, Syndarian is able to weave cohesive atmospheres that are appealing and approachable. Partly due to the minimal tool palette he uses, and partly due to his fantastic songwriting that is equally engaging and provocative. The songs on this album sound consistent, falling neatly in line like pieces of jigsaw. Mostly written in minor keys, the songs on here are laced with a distinctive darkness that is relatable. Syndarian’s lyrics deal with his journey of self-discovery, and the music readily mirrors the contrasting, conflicting emotions that come with disappointment, introspection, and acceptance.
The gentle guitar-voice arrangements on Time Away are easy on the senses. Syndarian is a fantastic guitarist whose easygoing chord strums are laden with soul. Easy but not without feel and elegance. His voice is also conversational and easy to understand. A gifted singer, Syndarian’s deliveries are consistent and melodic, and his melodies sound familiar and sweet, a ray of light that is a mainstay on all of the album’s songs, from the darkest to the most hopeful ones.
Syndarian’s Time Away is a gentle and soulful foray into the artist’s mind and thoughts. A conceptual listen that is soft and musical, Syndarian’s music is akin to indie, bedroom pop of artists like the legendary Elliott Smith. We enjoyed Time Away and are grateful for Syndarian for allowing us this chance to be with him on such a personal journey.
