Grant Wolter’s first full length album, Pencilled-in Imagination, is a strong effort from the guitar playing, Novocastrian singer-songwriter. Opening with an old favourite included for his loyal fans and closing with a previously unheard tune, Wolter takes listeners on a trip through his musical range and lyrical power.
For his debut Wolter enlisted the aid of studio musicians for this album and the results are palpable, however, the core quality of the album comes from the work that Wolter did himself. The songs sound mature and well-structured, and chart the improvements that the artist has made since the release of last year’s EP Sweetness and Light.
‘Spilt Coffee’, the albums opening tune and a crowd favourite, sounds fresher than ever before and captures the energy that the 22 year old brings with him to the stage. ‘Smarter than me’ is another highlight, showcasing the mix of vulnerability and romanticism that characterises Wolter’s music. ‘Limelight’ is also a particularly strong effort, capturing the pop/rock sensibility that drives Wolter in his work and comes from his many influences. The albums second last track, ‘Disenchanted Dancer’, displays Wolter’s proficiency on the piano and sounds reminiscent of a Ben Folds pop ballad – poignant and powerful, but not so intense as to render the listener emotionally comatose.
Pencilled-in Imagination is a soundtrack for all of us out there who are standing on the precipice of life and love. Wolter’s quiet yet powerful style is captured perfectly on this album – the listener being exposed to his unique take on pop music through a series of alternatively upbeat and moving tunes.
Review by Mitchell Meek
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