brushstroke

South Philly musician Eoin Murphy, aka brushstroke, has recently released his album One vs. One, a set is full of catchy, sleepy, guitar based songs about love. Murphy isn’t necessarily a crooner, but his vocals are charming and authentic. He personally played, wrote, and recorded everything on the album himself, an impressive feat. His production features interesting sounds and textures, a refreshing mix of synths and guitar.

One stand out track from the project is “S.T.C.” A video game inspired synth takes the lead with a super catchy rhythm section. The vocal melody is more dynamic, which balances out the repetitive phrases in an interesting way. The ending delivers satisfyingly glitchy synths and a gorgeous electric guitar solo.

One of my personal favorites from the album is the cover of J Dilla’s “Fall In Love.” It starts off slow and clear, with mid range electric guitar. Dreamy and eloquent layers of electric guitar, and a subtle, but rich bass fill out the sound. The cover is rather simple, but in the best way. It lets the song speak for itself while showcasing Murphy’s musicianship.

“Fever Dreams” is another highlight of the album. The melody is memorable and sing-along friendly. The production choices here are interesting, especially with the synths in the chorus and the subtle percussion. This track features yet another awesome guitar solo. This solo is my favorite from the album. Murphy makes the electric guitar sound like it’s singing.

Overall, this album is a solid and unique debut for brushstroke, establishing his own style as well as displaying taste and musicianship. Check out One vs. One down below, and catch brushstroke live at Bourbon and Branch on March 22nd. More info on that show here. - The Key WXPN

Debut album from Southwest Philadelphia multi-instrumentalist Eoin Murphy is like a well crafted mixed drink; icy sweet from the first sip with a lingering tension at the end of each gulp. Released under the pseudonym “Brushstroke,” this album paints a masterpiece from ear to ear.

Ten songs come together to make up One vs. One, and they can be enjoyed on all major streaming platforms. If you consider yourself a listener who is hip to the artist-centric music streaming site Bandcamp, then you may have spotted One vs. One in their January edition of Bandcamp Weekly, where the website features new releases everyone should be hearing; otherwise a digital tip of the hat to Murphy from the Bandcamp family.

Check out the tracklist down below!

One vs. One Tracklist:
1. Welcome
2. Tapestries
3. Tongue Tied
4. S.T.C.
5. Fall In Love (w J Dilla)
6. Mindgames
7. Fever Dreams
8. Sun Lens
9. Tomorrow
10. Thanks & Goodbye




It was the catchy single “Tapestries” that caught their attention, a song that has any listener singing along by the time the second chorus hits. The hook’s lyrics are filled with imagery and transport you to a hazy, blissful atmosphere layered with wispy guitar leads...

“Waitin on that dotted time
Drivin through the candlelight
Watching as the sun fades on the hill
I can feel this passin through
Maybe I’ll get back to you
Only after I see that blue
Tapestries of me and you”

Murphy’s voice tiptoes throughout the track, the longing for something he once had evident in his swooning vocal melodies. The lyricism feels impeccable, especially with lines like, “Drivin through the candlelight,” and, “Tapestries of me and you.”

Can you see it? The blurred horizon of driving through candlelight and two people weaving their relationship with each strand like a woven tapestry.

Tucked in the middle of One Vs. One, "Brushstroke" pays a homage to one of the most worshipped producers of our time, J Dilla. Murphy serves up his own rendition of the beloved tune “Fall In Love” and decides to strip the song of the beat entirely. This is a bold move to cover a Dilla tune, but he pulls it off gracefully. The cover starts out with simple guitar strums, eventually blooming into a multilayered masterpiece. The riff continues over and over again, trying to lull the listener into a peaceful dream.This record is a mature and powerful debut release from Brushstroke.

Not only are the songs catchy, but they highlight Murphy’s prowess as a guitarist, singer, and producer.

I cannot wait to hear what Brushstroke has in store for the future. In the meantime, of course, at least we have an entire album to jam to while we wait!Catch Brushstroke’s updates on their social media, or today, March 22nd at Bourbon & Branch right here in Philadelphia! - The Hook Journal