Two years ago we reviewed 17 year old Patrick Gardiner’s debut EP Save Myself. In case you’re wondering how that went, we described it as: ‘a sophisticated and addictive acoustic EP with personality and charm’.
Since then Gardiner has gigged extensively around NI and Enlgand, moved to Cornwall to study and released a second EP, the tantalisingly named, Carcassonne. Hailing from County Down, this 19 year old singer/songwriter isn’t short of drive and you can catch him gigging around Cornwall or at some of NI’s festivals this year.
In signature Patrick Gardiner style, the first track I’m Your Creation is a gentle combination of heart, a great sense of lyricism and very catchy guitar playing. Aside from the poignant, almost fairytale-esque lyrics, the quirky tip-tapping and discordant drums are a delightful addition to an already endearing song. I’m pretty sure I’ve heard this one live and it’s nice to hear it well recorded in all of its intended glory.
Title track Carcassonne is everything you’d want it to be; starting with a smooth, almost muzak sounding intro, Gardiner’s NI accent rings out as he paints a vivid picture of hot nights and memories passed. Moving away from standard ‘boy with a guitar’ teen angst, you can almost hear the cobblestones in this grown-up romantic tale.
Despite moving to England for University, Gardiner’s humble Northern Irish charm is still retained in Be Free, an ode to being yourself, whilst the sombre violins of Surgery, coupled with Gardiner’s almost imperceptible humming make for a heart wrenching track.
Final track 4am sees Gardiner’s fantastically intricate guitar playing back up another heartfelt song. The oxymoronic complicated simplicity of these tracks give Gardiner a definite edge over other singer/songwriters of his age and his honesty gives him a charm that will see him go far.
Unlike Save Myself, Carcassonne sounds more like a transition record, a shift from teenage angst to more grown-up songs. Whilst less catchy than the first EP, this is still a solid collection of songs that showcase Gardiner’s musicality, sensitivity and sheer ability to see the extraordinary in everyday situations. Overall Gardiner is a bit more worldly, a bit less wistful, but still every bit as talented.
Follow Patrick on Facebook, Twitter or on his website. You can buy Carcassonne on Amazon or iTunes.
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