Lichen Slow

Lichen Slow are Malcolm Middleton and Joel Harries. Middleton is primarily known for his work in Scottish indie rock band Arab Strap, who are hailed for their unconventional, intricate instrumentation and candid ruminations on the tragi-comedy of navigating today’s world. The multi-instrumentalist’s solo records dug deeper into Middleton’s ability to blend humour and poignancy, alongside anthemic, acoustic-driven indie bangers. Meanwhile, Harries’ discography spans gorgeous, stripped-back solo records, the gentle-electronica of duo Team Leader and instrumental-noise band 72%.

For Harries and Middleton, Lichen Slow is a band steeped in mutuality and patience. As musicians both individually involved in a wealth of solo and collaborative projects, the pair are well aware of the creative roadblocks that can arise in the midst of deadlines and expectation. However, on their debut full length Rest Lurks, Harries and Middleton bend to the exhale of instinctive spontaneity that doesn’t seek to have expectations confirmed but rather amplifies a certain curiosity and openness to the world. Through kaleidoscopic, intimate arrangements and lush, celestial vocals, Lichen Slow rid themselves of rigidity to produce an open-chested ode to the beauty of trusting the process.