We Live On Cliffs

iTunes Review

We Live On Cliffs is the first solo release by Adam Haworth Stephens, the singer/songwriter and guitarist who is also half of the folk rock duo Two Gallants. Fans of that energetic San Francisco band will likely appreciate these nine smartly crafted songs. The album is certainly smoother and more pop-oriented than Two Gallants’ work, yet played with the same verve and special attention to lyrics that makes that band noteworthy. Featuring moody, alluring arrangements and numerous subtle instrumental touches including keyboards, strings, and fine guitar work, the songs veer easily from sunny pop (“Praises In Your Name,” “Second Mind,” “Angelina”) to melancholy acoustic ballads (“With Vengeance Come,” “Everyday I Fall”). The most impressive songs, such as “Heights of Diamond,” “The Cities That You’ve Burned,” and “Southern Lights,” build and release, beautifully carried along by Stephens’ dramatic vocals and keen ear for melody. By exploring the fringes of his work with Two Gallants, Stephens has succeeded in fleshing out his own sound and creating a solid work of modern Americana.