Capas is a name familiar to most who frequent Worcester music venues, but what you might not know is that Capas is the brainchild and stage name of Phil Wilkins. The big, brass-heavy band that you’ve come to know and love performs music entirely composed by Wilkins, who has written every part.
The album opens with “High Times,” immediately showcasing the energy and positive vibes that Capas is known for. As an instrumental band, any vocals are always performed by guest vocalists. Rachel Medhurst of the band P7 (a band greatly missed around the Worcester scene) features on this first track, setting a high standard for the vocal collaborations. Track 2, “Break of Dawn,” with vocals by Eva Mackevic, maintains this high standard, offering an almost Massive Attack vibe. The vocals and instrumentation engage in a call and response, each trying to transport you to a more magical place.
Later in the album, we are treated to “Ghosts,” featuring vocal and lyricist Theone Mae Dawes whose broad and hauntingly powerful vocals perfectly suit a track with such a spectral quality. “Silence” features Casey Bailey, who brings a completely different style with his poignant spoken word vocals.
“Exhale” is the first instrumental track on the album, with the piano opening up with a melody and rhythm that fills the listener with a childlike wonder. Track 7, “Lotus,” again showcases the piano but in a very contrasting style to “Exhale,” being more dark and brooding. The album concludes with the title track “Nightfall,” rounding off the album in style and encapsulating everything Capas is about.
In summary, Capas is a testament to how to get the best out of musicians of all styles while maintaining a solid theme. “Nightfall” exemplifies this, being exciting and fresh while also providing a warm, comforting blanket of sound. My recommendation is to play this album loud during a late-night drive and let the music transport you to your destination. Catch Capas at the Worcester Music Festival in September and supporting Town of Cats in November.
By: Emilie Westcott