I Am Oak is the creative vehicle for Utrecht-based (that’s the Netherlands in case you were wondering) musician Thijs Kuijken. He released an album entitled On Claws last year and is back with a moody follow-up entitled Oasem. While On Claws was a notably creative endeavor, it still stayed true to the folk format. Oasem, on the other hand, explores new sonic territory while adhering to the same brand of melancholia exhibited on its predecessor. Primitive drums provide the fitting backbone for Kuijken’s contemplative lyrics and haunting vocals while ambient flourishes and measured instrumental touches meld to create an impressive collective atmosphere . “I,” with its funeral-march pace, sustained notes, and otherworldly etherealness, is a fitting example of how Kuijken strikes the delicate balance between the gorgeously-adorned and flat-out eerie. Headphones highly recommended. – Capt. Obvious

Listen:

Curt.mp3

Giant.mp3