(Forward Music Group, Jan. 2007)

Released just over a year ago, The Olympic Symphonium’s debut, called Chapter 1, is likely nothing new to those on the East Coast, but it’s just made its way to my headphones, so that makes it fair game for me—and I can’t get enough of it.

Basically, the three-piece, hailing from Fredericton, New Brunswick (a city that I have a soft spot for since the odd childhood RV trip), have crafted a layered and inviting listen that is the sonic equivalent of wrapping yourself in a warm blanket. Throughout the release acoustic guitars intermingle and calm vocals harmonize, culminating in subtle, but addictive melodies complemented by the odd inclusion of electronic elements. Often evoking a complimentary likeness to Hayden (most prominent on the excellent “Till the Fall” ) and even Iron & Wine (as on album-opener/potential standout, “Hail Me King”) the album is a spot on dose of indie folk that laughs in the face of anxiety and stress.

I think one of the things that strikes me more and more with each listen to Chapter 1 is the overall quality level, as there really isn’t a sloucher to be heard. It’s the sort of album that makes choosing a standout hard (though I’m starting to learn towards the harmonized groove that is “Illuminate”), but that really isn’t a bad thing at all. Of course, at only 9 tracks that might come across as less of a feat, but, just like I said in last week’s Sleepless Nights review, I’ll take a short album that keeps me coming back for more over a long winded filler-fest any day of the week (hmm, both albums are from the same label…maybe they’re on to something).

All told, The Olympic Symphonium’s debut is a serene and artfully crafted outing that ought to keep you warm throughout the winter (Toronto just got dumped on today, so you better believe I’ve got the album cranked right up!) .

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Check out a few tracks from Chapter 1 below (right-click, “Save Link As” to download):

The Olympic Symphonium - Hail Me King

The Olympic Symphonium - Till the Fall

You can hear more at the band’s Myspace page, or pick up a digital copy of the album here.