Without A Doubt Review

Without A Doubt by XANDER CHAPPELL is an acoustic folk album transcending different tones. It also shows off Chappell's vocal and emotional range at the same time. The first track, Fortune, introduces you to the album with a sense of positivity and energy. The bright and shiny timbre of the guitar and the counter rhythm built by the drums does a great job at establishing a vibe that keeps the listener engaged to the track’s end. The constantly evolving sonic palette is brilliant to listen to.

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Without a Doubt continues on this energetic train with a confident banger, distancing itself from the acoustic folk roots of the project into a more pop oriented, bold tone. The crispness of the guitar throughout the song provides a difference in tone that highlights the fortitude of the track. The rest of the instruments mould and form around this guitar, giving it space to be the star of the show. This sonic understanding and unity between instruments adds a sense of flow as the melodic aspects can merge over one another, each contributing to the sound of the overall piece as opposed to standing alone.This level of togetherness further leans into the confidence at the core of the piece's identity. Even the title reflects this confidence. The piece radiates the certainty of the phrase “Without a Doubt.”

17 is another brilliant track. CHAPPELL’s vocal performance is the thing that stands out the most in this one. The depth of the vocal allows the emotive and raw narrative to peek through the gaps in its flawless execution. The resonance of the guitar gives you a pit in your stomach. Evoking the dull ache of remembering. The track explores that emotional crossroads of liminal nostalgia and sadness beautifully.

The mix between energetic and emotionally resonant tracks creates a bold and unique sound that succeeds in the confident moments as much as it does in the subtle, quiet moments.