It’s fitting that Adam Baxter chose home and family as the theme for his latest album, ‘Domestic.’ Aside from the obvious lyrical themes, the sound itself is warm and encouraging, reminding one of times spent with family around a fire or kitchen table.
With only six tracks, ‘Domestic’ is a short but sweet project. Baxter expertly blends various genres on this album, though folk is a dominating factor. Most of the songs have a slower, softer pace. This makes for a relaxing listen, but Baxter manages to subvert expectations on a few of the tracks.
‘Lights On’is an interesting example of this. The song starts with a sombre tone and stripped production, with faded vocals and acoustic guitar at the forefront. It builds to an amazing crescendo, with heavy backing and Baxter angrily shouting us out. In an instant, it goes from quiet self-assurance to a battle cry. It’s like a sudden slap to the face to remind us that while Baxter can croon us sweetly to sleep, he’s also got plenty of bite to keep us on our toes.
For the most part, however, the album takes the path of dreamy folk, and it works. Even if you’ve never heard him before, Baxter has a voice that’s somehow familiar. It’s safe, not in a boring way mind you, but in a way that’s comfortable. A way that’s like home.
The album closes out with ‘Day Dreamer’, another change in sound. Group shouts and backing vocals punctuate the song, joining Baxter in a lyric-less chorus that’s just soaring notes and pure joy. It’s a fun, hopeful song that would feel at home being sung at a family gathering, paired with old guitars, cold drinks and good company. It’s the perfect closer for an album that seeks to follow that very theme.