Life on a Shelf is the captivating new album from Boston-based artist Sal Weston. A wonderfully eclectic production shows throughout, from the saxophone-touched sophisti-pop of “Pixel Lights” and the dreamy synth/guitar interplay within “Calm Down” to the concluding “Beautiful Colors,” where a hazy country-folk emotion lingers as vocals pain “I don’t wanna feel this way no more.” Stirring lyricism frequently complements the instrumentation, featuring musicians from around the world — including “full brass from friends in Italy and Spain, and drums contributed by a friend in South Africa,” per Weston.
A folk-set retrospection enamors on the opening “Intro (Life on a Shelf),” where reminiscing on summer nights and pondering a sense of belonging — “where do we belong?” — resonates amidst lush acoustic layers. Weston’s vocal rise thereafter proves riveting; the track commences the album with an inviting quaintness, though also a heavily emotive charm and concluding vocal ardency — enjoyably indicative of the dynamics that show throughout the release.
“Imposter in the Hills!” ensues with a more vibrant entrancement, venturing from twangy guitars into organ-laden illumination and harmonious vocal warmth. The album consistently excels in its introspective lyrical prowess, and “Imposter in the Hills!” is particularly indicative of such. “I’m under the waves, drifting endlessly,” Weston sings during an enjoyable ascent, conveying a sense of personal strife as one strives to push past self-doubt. “Have you found the peace you wanted, or do you dream of it instead?” he lets out, artfully capturing the feeling of “running in place” in trying to traverse from inner-conflict to inner-peace.
Another standout, “Pixel Lights” embraces a gorgeously synth-infused radiance — melding with bouncy piano and tender guitar tones for a fantastic production. Saxophone work on this track and the subsequent “Feel Right” are particularly magnetic, with the latter compelling with its free-flowing Destroyer-esque emotions. Meanwhile, “Pixel Lights” incorporates it with a smoother, sensual late-night mood — fit for the funk-touched pop sensibilities that surround it. “We scrolled through the days, and swapped through the nights,” Weston’s vocals let out, reflecting on regrets with complacency and infatuation with the “pixel lights” instead of reality.
A serenely enchanting success that encourages to “take a breath, my friend” amidst chaos, “Calm Down” envelops in its comforting thematic hold and melodic fusing of playful synths and twangy guitars. “When the worries of the day weigh heavy on your mind, and you can’t find rest because your head’s a mess,” Weston establishes that relatable state of stress, pushing toward a jangly pop radiance and hopeful personal release. Life on a Shelf enthralls with its blend of heartfelt lyricism and melodic productions, resulting in a standout overall success from Sal Weston.
