Sunflower Thieves have released their debut EP, Someone To Be There For. Born from an abundance of creative space thanks to the pandemic, this project highlights the power of resilience as it meanders through topics of loss, friendship, and growth. It carves an unexpected silver lining in the gloomy clouds that have darkened the last two years.
‘Sirens’ opens with a performance that still gives the chills I felt late last year. Warm, acoustic chords are paired with piano melodies that wander and envelop the mind. Creating an organic sound that houses the most harmonious of vocals. Good LORD the vocals are good. They highlight Sunflower Thieves’ greatest trait and with the additional voices they make it sound even stronger. It still remains a wonderful song and sets a great base for the rest of the EP to build off of.
‘Lichtenberg Figures’ follows with an equally compelling sound. Thunderstorms are heard to deepen the connection between the artist and the earth, as the lyrics ponder the existence of life on other planets. Strings are added to the mix. Acting as electricity that courses through the veins of the song. Each layer is heard clearly, and together they create a force that makes an impact.
The easy-going chorus of ‘I Don’t Know Why’ will ring in my mind forever. Its calming set of chords and overarching horns cut a warm contrast against the bubbling tension that exists within the lyrics, as they try to understand the lack of connection they have with someone they love. ’34 Days’ seems to accept the disconnect as it moves slowly through the ears. Burdened by the weight that it carries as it sings about being so tired.
I’ve been waiting to hear something substantial from Sunflower Thieves ever since hearing ‘Two Halves’ back in 2018, and they have delivered wonderfully with this EP. Someone To Be There For is a fantastic listen. One that I can leave on repeat all day. It features a lot of what makes the duo so great: organic instrumentals paired with lyrics that are heartachingly beautiful. I really love the group dynamic it has, while also bringing vulnerability with its moments of solitude.
It’s exciting to hear where they go from here. The subtle electronics heard on ‘Grown Out Of You’ make me wonder if that’s a route they will follow on future projects, but either way I’m coming along too.