It was just a week ago that I first heard the music of Nashville-based singer-songwriter David Swick at a Sunday afternoon Sofar Sounds Chicago event. Accompanied by violinist Laura Epling on strings and backing vocals, David captivated the audience in a tiny, packed Chicago apartment with his stunning, flawless, fingerstyle performance on acoustic guitar, which provided the perfect musical soundtrack for his expressive, heartfelt vocals.
Among the songs performed was his debut single, "Poster Child", which was officially released this past week. From its ethereal, atmospheric intro to the soft whistle that gently leads us out of this beautiful, hypnotic ballad, the song showcases David's soft, plaintive vocals gliding across nicely layered strings, acoustic guitar and additional production. David's musical style is reminiscent of artists like Jeff Tweedy, The National and The Microphones. The strings and musical production bring to mind ethereal elements of This Mortal Coil and early His Name is Alive. This is a brilliant song that transports the listener to a contemplative and introspective time and place.
"Poster Child" is produced by "Cowboy" Sam Gidley, and mastered by Trevor Richardson, with arrangements by Laura Epling. It is the first single from David's forthcoming EP, Nothing to Say, expected out June 9.