Christopher Brooks self-titled | via https://christopherbrooks.bandcamp.com/releases

Singer-songwriter Christopher Brooks (of the Wayfairs and Conversations with Enemies) is releasing his self-titled debut album on Monday, June 16. For his debut, Brooks brought together a collection of local artists, including Frances Quinlan, Mark Quinlan, and Joe Reinhart of Hop Along, as well as Alex Smith of Cold Fronts. It was recorded at Headroom Studios in Fishtown with Joe Reinhart and Kyle Pulley and mastered by Ryan Schwabe.

Brooks will perform a show at the Bourbon and Branch tonight with local songwriters Paul Keen, Dylan Jane, and Matt Romagna.

The album features a collection of 10 carefully crafted songs. Fingerpicked acoustic guitar populates most of the record, a perfect fit for Brooks’ raspy, hushed voice. These moments have the sincerity of an Iron & Wine piece, but at times can become as edgy as a newer indie folk act like Bad Books. Strings, piano and organ round out this debut, making Brooks’ songs full with passion.

It includes the duet “Howl”, where Frances Quinlan lends her unique voice to Brooks’ sad, wintery anthems. Behind layers of violin and piano, Mark Quinlan provides tasteful drum work.

You can listen the album on Bandcamp, and get a copy of it here.