Album Review: Sam Buckingham - I'm A Bird

There isn't much that's more intimate than having a remarkably talented singer/songwriter perform in your own home. Sydney's Sam Buckingham played the majority of shows for her House Concert tours in people's living rooms. And while she might not physically be in your home when you listen to I'm A Bird, that warm sensation is still very much present. With its folk melodies and tales of love and longing, I'm A Bird is a soothing and uplifting record that feels like she's playing just for you. Funded partly by a crowdfunding campaign, it's an album for the people by the people – contributors even appearing on the record.

A third of the way through the LP, Shackles is the first song to express a sombre note; a compelling, beautiful ballad about inner-strength and resilience that calls Laura Marling to mind. Mountain Sun and Oh, Bahbo have such light and carefree qualities that you can't help but smile along with the melodic chords. There's a sense of optimism that permeates the entire record, even when the lyrics take a more melancholy turn with Tomorrow I'll Wear Black. Absent of any instruments the penultimate track serves to emphasise Buckingham's vocal talent.

The album does see-saw as Buckingham oscillates between sweet and sad. But it's a genuine tale of adventures had and knowledge gained during Buckingham's three-year traipse across Europe – and life (particularly while travelling) is anything but a linear storybook. Play I'm A Bird after a tiring day; put your feet up and relax your aching brow, let your mind drift upon the current of Buckingham's honey-sweet sound and she'll take you on a journey home.