In some bands, the bassist is perhaps viewed as the most expendable member of the group. I mean, look at The White Stripes; they don't even need a bass player. In order to disprove this theory, some wielders of the four-string have embarked upon solo careers, perhaps to underline their talent and show there are more strings to their guitar than creating a musical foundation for others to build on. We only have to look at the illustrious names that have followed this path to prove that bass players should perhaps stick to what they know best. Melissa Auf Der Mar and others may have issues with this theory perhaps. Who can forget Duff McKagan's (Guns 'n Roses) solo work? There's also that magnificent album Rock 'n Roll Gangster by Fieldy (Korn) to consider. What about Paul McCartney, I hear you say? Enough said, I reply.
Adem Ilhan is out to prove that the bass player can emerge from the confines of the band and make great music in their own right. The son of a Turkish pianist, he has spent the majority of his musical life as the bassist in the instrumental/electronic post-rock trio Fridge (alongside a certain Kieran Hebden of Four Tet fame). He has now stepped out from the shadows, found his voice, and made a great album. It is named Homesongs because it was recorded in Adem's London flat; although you would hardly notice, as the production is clear and crisp.
The influence of Fridge can be clearly heard in the organic use of electronics (very much in the background) and use of found sounds (pillows are hit, glasses tapped). However, this is a world away from an electronica album (I absolutely refuse to use the term folktronica); it is more of a folk album with an unusual, inventive soundscape behind it.
Adem has been quoted as saying that Fridge was purely an instrumental band because none of them could sing properly. Well, that is hard to understand as he sings here in an affecting voice, like a less idiosyncratic, more grounded Will Oldham. "Pillow" is haunting, Adem's tremulous voice floating over a harp, sparsely and beautifully played. On "There will always be," the harp is joined by chimes, bells, and a choir to moving effect. The pivotal song on the album, however, is the truly magnificent "These are your friends," which starts gently and crescendos to the rousing repetition of the line "Everybody needs some help sometimes." That line may look slightly twee on screen, but believe me, it means everything when Adem and his cohorts shout it from the rooftops.
It takes courage to step out from the comfort zone of being a "band member." In this case, it's a decision which has been vindicated already; this is a stunning solo debut from Adem, whose potential is just starting to be fulfilled.
1. Statued
2. Ringing in my ear
3. Gone away
4. Cut
5. These are your friends
6. Everything you need
7. Long drive home
8. Pillow
9. One in a million
10. There will always be
More about: Adem
