Forrest Hill’s sixth solo album, Beyond The Veil, unfolds as a harmonious, introspective journey — blending warm acoustic textures, melodic folk-rock sensibilities, and shimmering psychedelic touches. The Bay Area-based singer-songwriter’s sound balances contemplative moments with vibrant bursts of energy, creating an immersive listening experience that moves seamlessly between reflective lyricism and uplifting sonic passages.
The release also represents Hill’s third collaboration with noted producer and multi-instrumentalist J. Christopher Thomas. The duo has expanded Hill’s sound to incorporate modern psychedelic aspects within a memorable folk-rock foundation. “The collaboration with J. Christopher Thomas has been instrumental in bringing new dimensions to these songs,” Hill says. “We’ve pushed into territory that feels both fresh and authentic to where I am as an artist right now.”
A warming, melodic glow enamors right away with opening track “Another Day,” where comforting acoustic strums, harmonious vocals, and playful synths intertwine with replay-inducing allure. “‘Cause I’m doing fine, yeah I’m okay,” the vocals let out. “Watching my thoughts go drifting by, floating like clouds in the clear blue sky.” The lyrical reassurances and vibrant vocal tone make for an inviting kick-off to the album, while the subsequent “Still Believe” plays similarly like a guiding light for those astray, for those whose life “feels like you’re living in a dream.” Its perspectives on an ever-changing world, and the ever-importance of love and “who we want to be,” makes for another resonating piece of songwriting.
Another gem of a track comes in “Flow Like A River,” a timeless-feeling rocker with shades of Neil Young in its primary refrain. Thematically it also feels like a response to “Still Believe” and perceptions of self and positivity. “Don’t let the poison flow like a river into your heart,” the vocals repeat during the excellent chorus, emphasizing the importance of protecting oneself while allowing love and clarity to flow freely. “Give It Away” also stands out with its excellent sound, achieving a more power-pop serenity and its various pleas, including to “give up the need to always be right.” A positive, insightful success, Beyond The Veil is an accomplished success of an album from Forrest Hill.
—
“Flow Like A River” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
