On his second solo album, Beware Of Pity, Zac Lawrence reveals a quieter, more introspective side of his artistry. Stepping away from the furious energy of DEADLETTER, the songwriter crafts a collection rooted in British folk traditions, blending acoustic guitar with cello, clarinet, and subtle orchestral flourishes. Tracks like “Total Evasion of Comfort” showcase sweeping arrangements, while “Susanna Reid” leans toward American folk with a gentle, almost country-tinged warmth, highlighting Lawrence’s flair for melodic nuance.
Lawrence’s cavernous vocals form a striking counterpoint to the delicacy of the instrumentation. On “Last Shot Fired” and the melancholic “Hotel Hamburg,” Misty Miller’s fragile backing vocals enhance the emotional depth, creating intimate, cinematic moments. The dynamic interplay between voice and instruments lends the album a richness that belies its acoustic simplicity, making even the quieter tracks compelling and vivid.
Instrumentation throughout is precise yet unpretentious. Contributions from Blossom Caldarone on cello and clarinet, along with Nathan Pigott, add texture without crowding the arrangements. While the album occasionally treads familiar folk territory, Lawrence’s meticulous approach and keen sense of atmosphere ensure each song feels distinct, balanced, and thoughtfully realised.
Beware Of Pity is a confident solo statement, showcasing Lawrence’s versatility and subtle emotional range. It offers a reflective counterpoint to his work with DEADLETTER, delivering a serene yet resonant collection of songs that are both delicate and fully formed. While it may not push radical boundaries, it is a compelling, well-crafted album that affirms Lawrence as a musician capable of depth, nuance, and quiet brilliance.
