Taylor Mackall - Boy and The Saints

Taylor Mackall

Boy and The Saints
self-released; 2016

3.9 out of 5

By Matt Jensen
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Taylor Mackall is a young musician who at twenty years of age has a good amount of accomplishments. He was born and raised in LA and is currently studying music composition. He played in the Panama Jazz Festival twice, has been a semi-finalist in the Spotlight awards twice, wrote a jingle for NBC and also released an album entitled Boy and The Saints.

The album is quite long at thirteen songs and contains a vast array of instrumentation. It’s a technically impressive album especially in regards to the guitar but it’s also aesthetically pleasing. I thought the album gave off a serene, peaceful glow to it that evokes the imagery you see on the album cover. 

The album opens with “The Ascent” which starts with warm acoustic guitar. It’s quickly followed by light percussion and reverb-laced vocals which act as atmospheric pads. As the song progresses there is a uplifting, joyous feeling to the music. Next up is “Under the Rose” which is jazzy, slick and smooth. It has a very chill vibe but is also something you could dance to. 

“Lua Nova” has a Portuguese vibe which reminded me of the band Madredeus while “Ribbon of Life” showcases some of the most exceptional guitar playing. As the album progresses there really isn't a dud in the batch. “Avó Terra” and the meditative piano lead closer “Mulholland” were my personal favorites.

I need to point out how integral the production is to an album like this. You wouldn't have gotten the same effect if it was a mediocre DIY production Being able to clearly hear his Mackall’s slide on the guitar as well as the crisp cymbals added to the emotional impact of the album.

​Mackall is an extremely talented musician for any age but given the fact he is so young I think he may be able to pull off a career in music. Boy and The Saints is a great way to get things rolling.

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