Walls are artificial boundaries that in some aspects contain and provide structure by limiting the possibilities of a piece of music, forcing a focus. And in most cases, this focus is welcomed. However, Chris Forsyth & The Solar Motel successfully topple over the traditional mold, revealing a wide-open terrain. The abundance of space enables the group, led by Forsyth’s exemplary guitar work, to explore freely. Through this stretching process, the overall sound can better evolve over the course of a song, album or live set. Rather than rushing past an intriguing musical side street, they can get into the thick of it. While most songs provide a singular snapshot of a moment, Forsyth and crew dig deeper. An expertly honed psych atmosphere is the cornerstone of an organic yet consciously controlled sound. So, instead of merely offering a momentary glimpse, Forsyth & The Solar Motel allot the necessary time to orchestrate vivid songs that transport the listener from one place to another, mapping out the journey. This venture provides solace by comfortably erasing the expectations of knowing were you’re going and how you’re getting there. Simply letting you sit back and embrace the scenery, which is why you find Chris Forsyth in the very respectable third place position in our Year End Philly Best Emerging Artists Poll 2013. – Michael Colavita
