Strawberry Guy - “I’ll Be There”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 10

Pairs Well With…Father John Misty, Sufjan Stevens, Belle & Sebastian

No word yet on a follow-up of Strawberry Guy’s 2021 debut Sun Outside My Window, but a revisit of that record really shows off what ‘cinematic folk’ should sound like, an ultra-lush record augmented with orchestral instrumentation. Constantly pretty, a sound Strawberry Guy accurately self-describes as “impressionist”, his music is always full, but never heavy. Given Sun Outside My Window’s detailed and complex instrumentation, it’ll be interesting to hear how a Strawberry Guy set sounds live at SXSW, assuming there isn't a full string and horn section crowding on a small stage. It is worth noting he’s pulled a choice slot and venue opening up Friday night’s showcase at Central Presbyterian followed by sets from Pearla, Kate Davis, and Jane Weaver. (Kevin McStravick)

2022 Review: Classic piano-pop and bedroom folk songwriting intermingle on Strawberry Guy’s debut full-length Sun Outside My Window, a cinematic record aided by lush instrumentation accompanying the UK artist’s vulnerable songwriting. It’s a beautiful and consistent piece, an example of Strawberry Guy’s use of orchestral flourishes that build his otherwise lo-fi, emotive songs into something much more grand and ambitious. Sweeping strings make sad moments especially resonant - Strawberry Guy’s evolution is clear here, moving from his floating, chillwave roots that made for excellent foundation to the rich and rewarding arrangements that power Sun Outside My Window.