Ar Lewi - Two Minds (2024) Hi-Res

A new name to the Americana UK universe, Ar Lewi describes kickstarting his musical journey by living out of the back of his car at state campgrounds, and inviting fellow campers to impromptu campfire shows.

Gradually building a following, he has transformed these early experiences into a rapidly expanding body of recorded work that captures the essence of those early, intimate beginnings. With 7 albums already released into the world since 2021, “Two Minds” is the latest offering, with a tracklist of 15 songs making their way into the light.

With influences such as Bill Callahan, Vic Chestnut and perhaps most obviously Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy, Lewi brings an understated, lo-fi approach, built around his own acoustic guitar and harmonica, but with some beautifully melodic bass playing by Steven Mertens, and some subtle synth colouring from Bill Oregano.

Lewi has a hypnotically soporific voice, and the gentle musical backdrops help to frame his lyrical musings to rather gorgeous effect. Although this is music that is not mainstream, it is very easy to listen to, and rather beautifully constructed; take ‘What’s One More Heartbreak’ , which has a distinctly retro feel, like it might have been penned by one of the classic Tin Pan Alley writers of the 30’s.

’Take It All Back’ treads a similarly dreamy path, though with an off-kilter middle 8 to give it a more modern slant.

’Two Minds’ feels like an open invitation to a different place, a different mood. It is very much a headphones sort of record, inviting the listener to tune out from the world outside, and immerse yourself into that of Lewi. It is a record which is imbued with autumn mists and winter haze, and soft starlit skies. The discerning listener is going to find plenty of wisdom and comfort from Lewi’s offerings.