Sometimes an album comes along that feels like a conversation with an old friend, one who has lived fully, loved deeply and isn’t afraid to share the messy and meaningful truths of that journey. “Middle of Tomorrow”, the debut album from Knotted Wood is exactly that. It’s a rich and reflective Americana tapestry woven with heartfelt storytelling, perfect instrumentation and a production quality that elevates every note without ever stealing the soul of the music.
The album opens with “You Are Here” a track that wastes no time setting the emotional and sonic tone. With a dynamic performance that immediately pulls the listener in, this song is both musically vibrant and lyrically poignant. The message that our loved ones live on in our hearts is delivered through vocals that are rich and captivating and supported by a band that plays not just tightly but with feeling. It’s an opener that demands attention and it gets it.
Knotted Wood’s strength lies not just in their musicality but in their ability to make each track feel personal without being insular. There’s a lived-in warmth to the songs, reflective of frontman Patrick McDaid’s storytelling which is steeped in experience and sincerity. Tracks like “Stand Still” and “Every Road” explore themes of love and the pull of home with an authenticity that can’t be faked.
Midway through the album, “Walk Beside Me” arrives like a gentle gut-punch, it’s emotional and showcases the band’s more delicate side. The instrumentation here is quiet and beautifully balanced, allowing the vocals to take center stage while still providing a lush sonic backdrop. It’s one of the album’s standout moments and a reminder that quiet intensity can be just as powerful as anthemic energy.
Then there’s “Leaves” a catchy number that lifts the mood with its bright instrumentation and confident vocal delivery. It feels like a breath of fresh air in the album’s arc. It’s hopeful, catchy and completely honest. And just when you think the record might have peaked, the closing two tracks “Far Side of Midnight” and the title track, “Middle of Tomorrow” bring it all home. These final songs blend emotional depth with great songwriting and offer a finale that feels earned and deep.
The musicianship across the board is exceptional. Dave Hollinghurst’s guitar work is impressive and Alec Ferrell’s talent as bassist and arranger provides a solid backbone and the additional layers from Eric Willhelm on drums and Melissa Burriss on piano/keys add richness and nuance to the album’s sound. The production is clean and polished and every instrument has its space and every voice is heard.
This new release is more than just a promising debut, it’s a fully formed artistic statement. Knotted Wood may be new on the scene, but this record feels like the work of seasoned pros with something real to say. It’s heartfelt, artful and filled with music you’ll want to live with. If this is only the beginning, the road ahead looks bright.
