Trappist Afterland, an Australian psych-folk band formed by musician Adam Cole, has released their tenth album titled “Evergreen – Walk to Paradise Garden”. The album, which features well-known collaborators such as guitarist Henry Parker and visionary artist David Tibet of Current 93, is a stunning collection of nine songs that defy time and musical trends.
Created during the winter rains in the hills above the Adelaide plains, “Evergreen – Walk to Paradise Garden” is a bittersweet reflection of Cole’s visits to his hometown of Kiama, on the New South Wales South Coast, where he witnessed the slow deterioration of his mother into dementia. Amidst the passing of his mother, the breakdown of his marriage, and his eventual return to live in Kiama, Cole found solace in the creation of these hauntingly beautiful songs. The album is an intimate celebration of the bonds formed over a lifetime. Cole, who is no stranger to seeking confirmation in moments of communion with loved ones, expresses the importance of cherishing each moment, even though they may be fleeting. “Evergreen – Walk to Paradise Garden” also pays homage to the idea of finding new green shoots, even in the midst of turbulent times. The title of the album, borrowed from a painting by British artist Frederick Grasehopper, speaks of the cyclical nature of life and growth. Like the evergreen trees, Trappist Afterland’s music shows resilience and refuses to be confined by societal expectations. It invites listeners to embrace the present, heal from trauma, and find joy in the darkness.
Each track on the album is a journey through melancholic melodies and poetic lyrics. Cole’s vocals, accompanied by delicate acoustic instruments and ethereal background vocals, easily knot themselves around the pleasure centers of the brain. The lead single, “The Squall”, is a standout with its hypnotic rhythm and haunting instrumentation that transports listeners to another realm. Trappist Afterland’s “Evergreen – Walk to Paradise Garden” is a testament to the band’s maturity and growth over the years. Each song is a reflection of Cole’s personal experiences, making it a deeply personal and moving album. It is a reminder to appreciate the present, celebrate the bonds with loved ones, and find new growth even in the darkest of times. This album is not just a musical journey; it is a soulful reflection on life and its evergreen nature.