Album Review: Langhorne Slim & The Law 'The Spirit Moves'

Singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim released his new album (and second with his band The Law), The Spirit Moves, on August 7th. The project, recorded at Andrija Tokic’s Bomb Shelter studio in Nashville, was co-produced with Kenny Siegal. The twelve songs deal with themes stemming from major life changes for the artist, including laying down roots in Nashville, a change for the self-professed “born to be in motion and follow the sun rambler.” In addition, the collection marks the first album in his career that was written and recorded completely sober. 
The Spirit Moves is a personal and introspective album, focusing on themes including new beginnings, love, strength and growth. And while the songs are incredibly honest and passionate, they are not all somber; some beg to be danced to, like the incredibly infectious “Strangers” and optimistic “Southern Bells.” The title track, which opens the record, is a joyous, horn filled ode to life and opening yourself to experiences. That is followed by the emotional “Whisperin’,” a story song about infidelity in which he sings with hurt and anger, “How do you sleep at night holding another then re-apply your lipstick to kiss me?” “Changes” is an intimate, yet relatable, look at reformation while standout track, the folksy “Airplane,” touches on overcoming difficulties and taking flight with your life.

The 1950’s feel of “Life’s A Bell” calls one to open their heart to love; an idea that is continued in the du wop sound of “Put It Together,” about connecting with that one person who can heal your heart. In contrast, the soft strum of the banjo on “Meet Again” highlights both a remorsefulness and hopefulness after a love fell apart. “I want to hold you in my arms and take back all I’ve done wrong if we should meet again.”

The piano ballad “Strongman,” the seemingly autobiographical “Wolves,” based on a James Kavanaugh poem, and the romantic, soulful “Bring You My Love” round out the album. While often deep, The Spirit Moves is a record that is balanced with melodies that you can literally move to, while simultaneously moving your spirit with a positivity and strength that gets stronger with each successive listen.

---