JOSEPH ARTHUR ///
VAGABOND SKIES ///
LONELY ASTRONAUT ///
WORDS: RYAN MILLAGER ///

“Don’t know where I’m going,” are the first lyrics heard on Joseph Arthur’s latest EP, but listen closer, because Arthur may know exactly where he’s headed: Vagabond Skies is the third of four summer EPs that lead up to a full album in September. I have not listened to the other EPs, but with Vagabond Skies Arthur has assembled a collection of six songs that exude restlessness with the here and now, as if he were at risk of falling behind (“Slow Me Down”) or getting too far ahead (“It’s Too Late”). But if he is a lost wanderer, he remains self-assured and ready to stick to his guns nevertheless. Tough love for everybody else: “Riddle me this / What the hell’s your name?”

Musically, Joseph Arthur exhibits country/western- and gospel-influenced indie rock that rises well above typical singer-songwriter repertoire. Although the EP is largely acoustic, Arthur has a fondness for interesting and unexpected sounds, the most common of which is his own uneven voice layered in octaves and harmonies throughout each track. Two extremes stand out: “Second Sight” juxtaposes shimmering strings and guitar with ominous synth and distortion, while “She Paints Me Gold” is the most transcendent of the collection (bring on the reverb and piano chords!), a rare moment of ecstasy in the midst of the artist’s restlessness.

I say, if you’re in the mood for some slightly weird acoustic indie, go ahead and listen to these songs. They’ll either be a great primer for Arthur’s upcoming album or a sampler of the artist that’s just right for your wandering nights.