By Elena Gritzan

It has been a whirlwind five years for Patrick Watson – the success of his Polaris Prize winning second album, Closer to Paradise, and his critically acclaimed third release, Wooden Arms, have seen him and his band through tour after tour, winning fans over with his evocative compositions and wavering falsetto. It seems fitting then, to take a breath and enjoy the comforts of being at home. Watson’s Adventures In Your Own Backyard was recorded in his Montreal house, and appropriately is exactly the kind of album you would want to soundtrack a relaxing afternoon inside.

While there are no songs as immediately gripping as “The Great Escape” or “Beijing”, the album is full of interesting melodic turns and instrumental adornments that grow with each repeated listen. Watson is adept at both intimate, hushed phrases with just his voice and piano, and at cinematic sweeps with a full band; complete with trumpet proclamations and a cast of instruments including vibraphone and ukulele.

Mid-album track “Into Giants” encapsulates the entire album for me: hummed melodies, simple, effective arrangements and Watson’s distinctive voice. This is a gorgeous and graceful album that is well worth the repeated listens it requires.