Silver Fern is an intriguing indie band hailing from Huntsville, Alabama, composed of three talented musicians: Shannon Whaley on guitar and vocals; Steven Whaley, who takes on the roles of guitar, bass, piano, and various other instruments; and Jacob Stewart on drums. Central to the band’s creative process is Shannon Whaley, who has been the primary songwriter, crafting narratives and melodies that resonate with listeners.
The group has dedicated years to the creation of their latest album, following the release of their self-titled EP back in 2019. With a commitment to authenticity, they recorded and produced this album in the comfort of their own homes, allowing for a more intimate and personal touch to their sound.
Each member of Silver Fern has a rich musical background, previously being part of bands such as Camping In Alaska, Obed Edom, Glimpse, and Human Labor. This diverse experience contributes to the band’s unique sound, which they describe as a fusion of dream pop, progressive rock, shoegaze, bedroom pop, folk, post-rock, and slowcore. This eclectic mix is apparent in their compositions, which create a captivating atmosphere that invites listeners to explore the intricacies of each song.
Upon listening to their new material, it’s evident that the band’s sound has evolved since their EP, transitioning from a more folky vibe to a robust post-rock feel that aligns beautifully with their experimental tendencies. The album features a collection of eight mesmerizing tracks, each showcasing the band’s incredible craftsmanship in creating melodies that avoid cliched trends and stand out in today’s musical landscape.
Listening to the album is akin to gazing at a detailed medieval painting; the longer you observe, the more nuances and layers you uncover that might escape the attention of a casual listener. This deliberate intricacy is part of Silver Fern’s artistry. For those seeking background music to boost their mood casually, this album may not be the ideal choice; however, that very complexity is what makes it exhilarating. Personally, I find solace in their willingness to explore uncharted musical territories, especially in a landscape overwhelmed by similar-sounding bands.
Describing their sound, post-rock seems to encapsulate their essence best, yet there is enough variety within their music that listeners of all genres can discover something appealing. The mood across the album varies considerably, shifting from heavier, shoegaze-inspired tracks to more subdued, slowcore melodies, creating a dynamic listening experience.
Overall, this album presents a colorful palette of sounds, clearly reflecting the significant time and effort the band invested in its creation. My experience listening to it has been thoroughly enjoyable, and I look forward to giving it additional spins to delve deeper into its rich and intricate nuances.
Written by Filip Zemcik

