small plant by Small Plant

Our debut album, recorded in the depths of the first lockdown, tells of a gratitude for growing space, connection with nature, the importance of going outdoors and the worth of strong friendships. It is a collection of home recordings inspired by our time spent printmaking, climbing trees, swimming by the meadow and growing an allotment together (our cover artwork is our allotment! Drawn by Rowlie)

The album was recorded using two old iPhones, giving a lo-fi texture. Fender Rhodes rhythms, together with retro bass lines allude a sound of the 70s. The softer tracks let fingerpicked guitar and banjo carry you down the river Itchen, while our friend Rupert’s xaphoon & harmonica whisper the airy ambience of the nearby water meadows. Combine Gillan’s Afrobeat percussion with our homemade harmonies and you are left with “psychedelic Simon & Garfunkel” (an actual quote from our friend and artist Kimvi Nguyen)

Precious as a dusty vinyl, unearthed in your grandpa’s record collection.
Everything was brought to life in Totnes by James Hoare, using his art of analogue mixing techniques. Swirling our songs through springy reverb tanks and transferring to one-inch tapes. Our naturally rough and ready sound was given a richness and spacious feel, lending a sound that we hope will transport you into our small plant world.

Tracklist

1.	mothering nature	3:27

2.	out from the inside	3:06

3.	hang ups	2:47

4.	dartington	2:36

5.	friendship	2:58

6.	may	3:24

7.	magnolia	3:38

8.	shiny	3:54

9.	yellowy grey	3:01

Credits

released April 1, 2021

All songs written by Rowlie Bellasis & Esmae Pearce-Jenkinson. Drums & percussion by Gillan McLaughlin. Xaphoon & harmonica by Rupert Sabine. Viola by anonymous (how mysterious!). All other instruments played by Rowlie & Esmae.
Mixed & Mastered by James Hoare.

License