Lo-Fi Indie from Sentinel Events

Sentinel Events is a newcomer lo-fi indie artist and clinician hailing from Florida, who makes his entrance with his debut concept album titled Poor Historian. The record is a twelve-track collection that marries the worlds of music and medicine, creating a listening experience that’s as unique as it is enjoyable.

Opened by the title track “Poor Historian,” the album starts with an ominous soundscape of droning synth textures and a sample of a doctor reading out the medical report and assessment of an anonymous new patient, before introducing himself to the mysterious patient as he wakes up in hospital unable to remember anything, even his own name. What he does recall however, is a collection of lyrics and song stuck in his head, thus introducing the record’s context. Also alluded to in the record’s title; ‘poor historian’ is a medical term for a patient suffering from memory loss, unable to remember what led to their hospitalisation.

“Futures Will Arrive Regardless” opens with a bright acoustic guitar cutting through an airy sonic atmosphere. As the drums enter with a laid back rhythm, the artist’s soft vocals thread beautiful melodies via soothing delivery on this catchy outing of hazy folk pop.

“Hippocratic Oath” starts with a delicate atmosphere of swelling synth tones and a vocal sample, developing with intricate acoustic guitar plucks, joined by smooth vocals carrying cynical lyricism about the medical industry.

Other highlights include songs like “Narcissist Cicatrix,” with its haunting aesthetic of impassioned, hushed vocals riding above rhythmic acoustic guitar backing, warm bass tones and punchy drums, crafting a moving sound. “Gaslight Affair” starts with a sound of brooding guitar before taking on a dark alternative folk sound with a crunchy electronic beat and vocals that balance intensity and restraint, fusing beautifully with eerie strings, resulting in a moody sound.

The album closes with “Going to Spain,” starting off with a lively bar scene with an announcement made in Spanish as an electric guitar noodles in the background. When the song starts, Sentinel Events serves up a bouncy folk rock jam written about the desire to pack up and leave for Spain. A spirited shuffling beat propels the song forward as the bluesy twang of electric guitar flutters around the artist’s dynamic vocals, crafting a memorable finale to this superb debut record.

Sentinel Events’ confessional lyrics and vulnerable emotional exploration are at the heart of this album. Collaborations with various musicians, poets, and voice actors enrich the storytelling and elevate the album’s impact. Sentinel Events’ debut album is a work that you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again, each playthrough revealing new layers of its intricacies and raw beauty.

Listen to Poor Historian below