Ian Aaberg’s EP "Solitude" is a masterclass in Acoustic storytelling
There’s something profoundly powerful about music that strips away the excess and leaves only raw talent and emotion behind. On Solitude, Ian Aaberg does exactly that—delivering a breathtaking, 13-minute journey of intricate acoustic guitar work and deeply evocative storytelling. Recorded in a live session, the four-song EP is an exercise in restraint, proving that true artistry doesn’t need grand production to be deeply moving.
From the very first notes, Aaberg’s fingerpicking prowess takes center stage. Every pluck and slide of the strings feels intentional, weaving a narrative that mirrors the EP’s core theme: the struggle of feeling trapped in stagnation, despite the relentless urge to break free. His two original compositions shine with melancholic beauty, their melodies carrying an introspective weight that lingers long after the last note fades.
But the standout moment of Solitude comes with his rendition of Everybody Wants to Rule the World. Stripped of its iconic ‘80s synths, Aaberg transforms the Tears for Fears classic into something deeply personal—its haunting chords and delicate phrasing turning it into a meditation on longing and quiet resignation. It’s a rare cover that manages to feel just as powerful as the original, yet entirely its own.
Throughout the EP, subtle instrumental flourishes—gentle harmonics, airy reverb, and the occasional soft backing texture—add to the immersive experience without overshadowing the simplicity at its core. The result is a record that feels like a whispered confession, inviting the listener to pause, breathe, and lose themselves in the moment.
With Solitude, Ian Aaberg has crafted more than just an acoustic showcase—it’s a deeply human experience, unguarded and achingly beautiful. And in a world constantly demanding noise, its quiet brilliance speaks volumes.
For us, it was one of those records that instantly became a future listen to unwind, reflect, and become a little introspective with. The opener “When the Reign Starts to Fall” kicked it off in the best way, but realistically the entirety of the EP is a guitar lover’s dream come true. Go ahead and click those links below to listen and follow along for more!
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