Evan Bartels - “Lonesome”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 7

Pairs Well With…Phosphorescent, Noah Kahan, Chris Stapleton

Quiet and reflective, Evan Bartels’ music is a great accomplice on a long, lonely drive. Emotive piano balladry and hints of alt-country set vulnerable plates for Bartels to serve, backings that are prime for his naturally rich vocal tone. Either in a whisper or a belt, Bartels carries heartstrings among tomes of love and regret. He’s an artist that can do more less; look for a solo set or small-band setup at SXSW to lessen the gap between Bartels’ open songwriting and the listener’s ears. While heart-worn ballads could feel repetitive, Bartels is smart to finds moments of dynamism that add some pop/rock-oriented shine on these otherwise bare confessions. Expect new songs as well - Evan Bartels released his sophomore full-length Lonesome in 2021, followed up with a stripped collection called “The Bones” last year, and hopefully LP number three is on the way sometime in 2023. (Kevin McStravick)