Owl John Owl John LP

Owl John, aka Scott Hutchison of critically acclaimed Scottish indie rock group Frightened Rabbit, released his self-titled debut solo album in August 2014.

With the band on a break following the release of their fourth album Pedestrian Verse (their first with Atlantic Records) in February 2013, Scott headed to the Isle of Mull with the mission to write and record an album in two weeks. For a fortnight they made music by day and drank whisky by night; at the end an album was made and Owl John was born.

The Owl John album, which showcased Scott's trademark brutal honesty, saw a different direction from the music of Frightened Rabbit. Raw, powerful and often heart-breaking, Owl John saw Scott step out of Frightened Rabbit's shadow.

While there are distinct and obvious similarities between Scott Hutchison's project Owl John and his full band Frightened Rabbit — the folkish indie rock, warm vocals, and reverbed crunchy guitars all present — there is also purpose to the fragile honesty that manages to root itself into each lyric on his debut solo effort. There are also plentiful signs of Hutchison expanding his musical boundaries here, delving into an array of atmospheric, electronic influences while also trying his hand at a gritty bluesy riff or two on what is a varying record... Despite being only a side project, the sheer quality and array of styles found on Owl John's self-titled debut is testament to the prolific songwriting skills of Scott Hutchison.

Whether you're focusing on his effortless alliteration, gut-wrenching emotional appeal or that enchanting Scottish drawl, Owl John gives listeners plenty to dig into and envelop themselves with. Fans of Frightened Rabbit will feel right at home with the dynamic song structures and visceral lyricism while newcomers will be able to appreciate this album as much more than a one-off solo release, but rather a refreshing take from a songwriter looking to jump out of his comfort zone.