Henry Thayer drops debut record

20 year old Henry Thayer has already been on a promising path in the folk pop world, drawing from influences that range from The Happy Fits and Nick Cave to The Killers and Kodaline. Originally from San Francisco and now living in New York as a college student, Henry has spent the last year steadily unveiling his talent through a series of singles.

First making his entrance last year with the debut single “Stone Heart,” he’s since delivered an impressive amount of releases that speak to his songwriting talent and prolific creative output. Now Henry Thayer brings us his most ambitious release to date with his debut album titled Legacy, swapping his bedroom recording setup for the full scope of a professional studio and delivering a work that feels personal and sonically expansive.

The journey to Legacy began with a Kickstarter campaign, backed by friends, family and early fans who believed in his vision. What resulted from that support is a collection of six tracks recorded over just two days at Tiny Telephone in the Bay Area, a studio known for its dedication to analogue style and vintage warmth. It’s a setting that suits Henry perfectly, giving his songs new life through layered instrumentation and live-tracked performances.

The album revisits and refines some of his earlier singles, but it also offers two new songs that expand his musical output. From reflective acoustic numbers that speak to his folk origins, to heavier, more brooding cuts and upbeat indie rock anthems, the record was brought to life with live drums handled by a high school friend while Henry’s own father contributes basslines throughout .

Set up by the bounce of lightly gritty guitar tones on “Upside Down,” a bright pop-focused indie rock sound is met by Henry’s smooth vocal leads, spinning catchy melodic leads above the upbeat arrangement. “Redwood” slows things down with delicate piano backing and the laid back snap of drums as Henry’s tender voice drifts above to craft a mellow folk pop outing.

Songs like his debut single “Stone Heart” showcase his timeless songwriting and emotive vocal performance, wrapped up in an elegant soundscape of soft acoustic guitar and subtle piano notes. “My Love” closes the record with a moody rock-inflected jam that pairs melancholic piano chords with crunchy guitar textures capped by Henry’s expressive voice which rings out above to cast an epic finale to his superb debut full-length.

Henry’s background in classical and jazz music, he studied tuba for six years at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s pre-college program, shines through in the way the songs are structured, resulting in an engaging listening experience from start to finish. Set to be celebrated with a record release show on August 7th at Bottom of the Hill in San Francisco, Legacy marks an exciting moment in Henry Thayer’s journey and he’s sure to continue going from strength to strength as a talented singer-songwriter on the rise.

Listen to Legacy below