Having never heard of Stylusboy, I was unsure what to expect so a quick read of the press release was in order. Stylusboy is one man, Steve Jones who has released two EP's over the last couple of years with this release of ‘Whole Picture’ taking him to an EP a year so far. Stylusboy is described as a "blend of lo-fi alternative folk" and you certainly get that feel from the EP, not only in the music but in its packaging as well. When you look at this EP, it is a reflection of the music you will find within, simple with a natural feel to it. A feeling that makes you touch the cover, unwrap the twine and smile.
By reflection of the music I usually listen to I would not say that I am a lover of folk (OK, I like Mumford and Sons but don’t tell anyone), however the songs on this EP have a sense of genuineness and optimism for what has happened and what could happen in the future which I felt a connection with. Simple in their nature with some interesting choices of instruments (it’s not often you hear a xylophone used in a song these days), the EP makes you wistful but happily wistful.
Opener ‘Whole Picture’ is a cheery upbeat song as well as being a clear indication of what the rest of the EP will be like, good guitar riffs, male and female vocals that blend together perfectly and a general warm feeling inside. ‘Beyond The Flag’ keeps some of the upbeatness to it before the EP moves on to a more mellow vibe causing you to reflect on what's being sung to you and life in general.
It picks back up again with ‘Gunfight at the OK Corral’. With a name like that you'd expect to have a bit of omph to it, which it does in the form of a simple acoustic omph but that doesn't mean it loses any of its power. We then finish with ‘Dave's Song’ a lovely tune which makes you want to hug your friends as it leaves you with a message of the future to come.
If you want some food for the soul, then this EP is it. A beautiful blend of guitar & vocals, this will lift your spirit and bring a smile to your face. You can perfectly imagine sitting in a sunny field at a festival tapping along.
By Lauren Carnall.
