Saplings is a heartfelt offering of songs to cheer and encourage, also containing explorations of the natural world and the other-worldly. A slender, delicate assemblage of thoughtful compositions, it is elegantly embellished by Bryden Baird’s trumpet and flugel horn arrangements, with Melisa Devost on backup vocals and ukulele. Three tracks contrast and complement the others by featuring Ryan Driver, Jean Martin and Justin Haynes on synth, pedal bass and electric guitar.
(Released 2010).
“Songs with a fascinating and spare, almost childlike tone that revolves around uplifting stories and organic imagery.”
— Edmonton Journal
“Charmingly rustic and whimsical.”
— Calgary Sun
“Kim Barlow has achieved a balance between sophistication and ruggedness.”
— Vancouver Province
“Her songs are rustic fairy tales with touches of heartbreak and wilderness.”
— The Valley Sentinel (Valemount BC)