Rock/Review Sukh - Heading East
Sukh is a Wolverhampton-born, Manchester-based singer-songwriter and doctor. Sukh's first record, "Kings," was met with critical acclaim when it was released in 2013. On the live circuit, Sukh has supported the likes of Basia Bulat, Nizlopi, Beth Rowley, Stu Larsen, and Natsuki Kurai. He completed several UK tours in 2019 promoting his release. He has also performed at Kendal Calling several years running and garnered support from BBC Radio 2 and BBC Introducing.
“Heading East,” Sukh's most recent album, is a major step forward from “Age of Strangers,” his previous album. While alienation and detachment were themes in his earlier work, “Heading East” takes a more introspective and personal approach. The album focuses on the beauty and calm resiliency that emerge after the first rush of love has subsided, highlighting the difficulties of long-term partnerships. The emotional impact of the words is highlighted by Sukh's traditional, spare songwriting in this instance.
The album's reflections on love, commitment, and relationship are set against a calming and reflective musical backdrop created by “Heading East,” which combines folk, indie, and soft rock components. Songs like "For the Road" and "Conquered" discuss the ups and downs of cohabiting on a daily basis, but they still retain a positive and hopeful vibe that distinguishes this record from its predecessor. With the help of soft melodies and acoustic instruments, Sukh's calming voice create a very intimate atmosphere of love and honesty.
“Heading East” exudes a spirit of acceptance and thankfulness, in contrast to “Age of Strangers,” which may have veered toward darker, more contemplative themes. This album is about choosing love every day—even in the face of difficulty—and appreciating the small moments spent together. Sukh's new album, which reflects the steady, persistent nature of love, is a gentle and inspiring collection of songs that offers listeners a sympathetic and honest representation of long-term partnerships.