Andrew Howie – Micronations

This mini-album is a collection of 8 songs (written between 2014 and 2018) about family, domesticity, failing memory, and the indifference of nature. Originally written on acoustic guitar and piano, Andrew’s predilection for self-imposed limitations led him to record the album using just one musical instrument: the compact and colourful Alesis Micron synthesizer. Combining nostalgic, reflective lyrics with futuristic sonic sounds and heavily-processed vocals, this album is the perfect soundtrack for the everyday stresses and strains of 21st century family life.

“A mix of beautiful acoustic tracks and inventive electronica, filled with insightful lyrics of loneliness and self-doubt. 4/5” – Scottish Daily Express

“Keep the edges rough, the result rougher, and you get closer to the heart of it. Closer to the truth. That’s what Solo Guitar Loops 1 does.” – Tiny Mix Tapes

Critical plaudits have followed Howie’s career like footprints. For thirteen years he worked under the name Calamateur, releasing 5 albums and several EPs, singles and mini-albums, receiving widespread radio plays and critical acclaim. He switched to releasing under his own name in 2015 and his album The Great Divide followed.

Whilst it retained many of the characteristics of his work as Calamateur (guitar-based songs submersed in other-wordly electronica) it a huge step-forward in terms of songwriting and production. In the last three years he has released a mix of ambient reworkings, co-writes and improvised pieces.

Live and recorded collaborations have involved work with Scottish collective The Grand Gestures, Jo Mango, Louis Abbot (Admiral Fallow), Iain Morrison, Yvonne Lyon, Kim Edgar, Steve Lawson, Rachel Sermanni and David Scott (The Pearlfishers). His music has been used in BBC Three drama Lip Service, as well as in several short films.

Social media links :