Luke Aaron Clark‘s re-released EP, Paper Tongue, takes listeners on a charming journey through the realms of indie folk music. Originally recorded in Nashville, in collaboration with renowned musicians and producer Wes King, this EP showcases Luke Aaron Clark’s talent for crafting honest, fragile and addictive melodies intertwined with fantastical tales and anecdotes.
After years of collaborating on various creative projects and exploring the relationship between architecture and sound, Luke Aaron Clark ventured into the challenge of writing an EP in 2011. The result was Paper Tongue, a collection of five beautifully crafted songs that have stood the test of time. Now, in 2023, Luke has decided to release the EP worldwide, sharing his enchanting music with a broader audience.
The EP opens with “Oh Isn’t Life Pretty,” a soft and soothing lullaby-esque track adorned with delicate layers of acoustic guitar and subtle harmonica accents. Luke’s elegant vocal delivery adds a touch of vulnerability, drawing listeners into the spellbinding world he creates. Moving forward, “Just OK” takes us on a blissful march, weaving a dreamy soundscape that gradually builds into an ethereal string arrangement. Luke’s vocals smoulder with passion and emotion, adding depth to the song’s atmospheric ambience.
“You” stands out as a beautiful love letter transformed into song. Luke’s floating vocals carry alluring melodies that capture the essence of devotion and longing. The introspective “Peace in Our Lives” showcases Luke’s ability to infuse country influences into his music, with the instrumentation subtly shining through. The EP concludes with “Paper Story,” a captivating composition featuring stunning vocal harmonies layered over a dynamic arrangement. The track builds to a rousing mid-section before gracefully descending into a gentle and satisfying finish.
Throughout Paper Tongue, Luke Aaron Clark demonstrates his versatility as a songwriter and composer, effortlessly blending various influences and genres. From the poetic folk sensibilities reminiscent of Bob Dylan to the textured soundscapes evocative of James Blake and RY X, Luke creates a sonic tapestry that’s uniquely his own. The EP’s intimate recording gives the songs an authentic and heartfelt quality, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in Luke’s musical world.
In addition to his work as a musician, Luke Aaron Clark’s passion for sound engineering led him to establish Flow Studios, a residential recording studio in the picturesque Loire Valley, France. This serene environment nestled in nature serves as his creative sanctuary and inspiration for his ongoing projects. With Paper Tongue being re-released to a global audience, Luke continues to work on new material, pushing the boundaries of indie and experimental music while using his expertise as a sound engineer to collaborate with other artists.
Luke Aaron Clark’s Paper Tongue is a gem of an EP that showcases his talent as a singer-songwriter and composer. It’s a testament to his artistic vision and the enduring quality of his music. As he continues to create and explore new sonic territories, Luke Aaron Clark’s reimagined release will undoubtedly win over listeners around the world, inviting them into his enchanting musical universe.
Hey Luke, how’s things?
All good, thank you!
Which artist first made a lasting impression on you?
It’s hard to say one… my parents played lots of Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Beach Boys and Leonard Cohen. Not a bad education!
What’s your earliest memory of making music?
I used to make little songs up as a kid. I then started writing a few piano bits at 13 and began writing songs on guitar at about 16.
Which artists do you draw most inspiration from today?
Alongside those listed above, I’m really inspired by Bon Iver, James Blake, and RY X.
How else do you find inspiration for your music?
I usually start the creative process by sitting at a piano, picking up a guitar, or experimenting with different sounds in my studio.
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
At a festival, an intimate venue, or somewhere peaceful and quiet.
How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?
I’m now starting to make music that crosses over from singer-songwriter / indie folk vibe to something more experimental.
How did you find making your EP ‘Paper Tongue’?
It was recorded in Nashville at Wes King’s home studio. He brought in some brilliant session musicians. We just had a great time making music and enjoyed hanging out together!
What message did you want to get across with this release?
All the songs are quite personal. The lyrics are simple but convey something quite deep and meaningful to me. There are three love songs, and two songs that are about broken relationships.
You originally released this EP in 2011, have your feelings towards the music on this release changed at all over that time?
It continues to hold a lot of personal meaning. It also reminds me of the profound time I had whilst making the record. There are certainly ways I might approach it differently now, stylistically.
How do the surroundings of your studio in the Loire Valley influence your music and creativity?
The surroundings are what really got me through the studio build! It wasn’t an easy process to build Flow Studios. Thankfully, every time I arrived at the location, it gave me a renewed energy and gave me the focus to complete the project. This is something that most people experience when they visit Flow Studios. The environment has a way of calming you, refocussing you and helping you to be productive. I strongly believe that how you feel about the space you’re in, translates to the music you make.
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
Alongside, the artists mentioned above, I’ve been listening to Puma Blue and Perfume Genius.
What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?
It would be great to think that my music can resonate with people and bring some degree of joy and hope. That may be over-reaching though!
What’s been your favourite live performance so far?
Pink Floyd was hard to top. They played both ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ and ‘The Wall’ during their Division Bell tour. Brian Wilson during his ‘Smile’ tour, Leonard Cohen at Manchester Opera House, or most recently Nick Cave at the 2022 Rock en Seine festival.
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?
Let’s keep it current, Nick Cave, Ry X and Bon Iver at Glastonbury.
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
Collaborate, back yourself, don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of 2023?
I’m continuing to run my residential recording studio in France, alongside recording new material for an upcoming release.
Listen to Paper Tongue below
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