Dozen-member folk-pop outfits seem to be the norm on the indie circuit these days and I often grow tired of them after the first listen. Seattle’s Grand Hallway hawks their eight-member operation, but they use each part sparingly and efficiently and the effect is quite breathtaking.

Tomo Nakayama seems to be the main driving force of Grand Hallway, writing and singing all the songs himself while the other seven members are all experienced musicians in their own right and know how to create beauty without hogging the spotlight. One of the most delightful things about Nakayama’s songs is that they can stand on their own without flourishes of harmony (as demonstrated with the delicate, introspective, piano-centred “In A Cave”), but those that are added are done so with consideration and subtlety.

Most songs off Promenade are upbeat melodies with a dichotomously melancholy flair provided by harmonies. It’s a very impressive effect and the arrangements are done with expert ability in selecting just the right combination of accompanying instruments for Nakayama’s understated and graceful voice. He even sings in Japanese for a track (“Usagi No Uta”), a unique twist to an overwhelmingly Western genre.

A delightful and unassuming work of art.

Track Listing:

1. Raindrops (Matsuri)
2. Blessed Be, Honey Bee
3. Under The Roof
4. Elinor With The Golden Hair (Tsukimi)
5. In A Cave
6. Usagi No Uta
7. Happy New Year
8. Pearrygin (Quite A Quiet)
9. Sirens
10. The Passenger (Minuet For Americans)