What does Andy Aquarius sound like?

Harp-based wyrd folk wrapped up in mystery and spiritual musings.

The review of ‘Holy Glade’ by Andy Aquarius

Andy Aquarius is an artist I discovered at the end of 2024 and I’ve been eagerly buying his previous releases. His music is often harp-centric and most of his releases are a result of a pilgrimage to somewhere sacred or of natural beauty. For his first release of 2025 ‘Holy Glade’, Andy spent ten days in a retired church in the Croatian mountains. The three songs composed for the Church of the Holy Cross were recorded within its walls and upon leaving, Andy says their spirits were sealed inside those walls forever.

With that concept and inspiration said, Andy Aquarius delivers three beautiful wyrd-folk tracks. The harp solemnly and forlornly plays out in each song with beautiful clarity and warmth. The opening track ‘Der Brunnen’ (water fountain or well) is an elegant piece. Softly underscored with an icy and desolate synth, the Celtic Harp melodies feel seeped in wisdom and history. ‘Bell-Shaped Days’ is the most complex of the three songs, bringing in church organ and Andy’s soft vocals to shape the contemplative melodies. Andy brings space and pause between certain refrains and motifs to let the sadness drift over the listener. It is a beautifully crafted song that feels lonely and disconnected from the bustling world. The closing track is ‘Holy Glade’. It is a mysterious shroud of harp, synth, organ and vocals that bring a foreboding hue over finger pick. The first half of the track has a traditional, almost drone-like quality to it as Andy stretches his words over minimal harp cues. The second half of the track is pure mysticism as all the song elements come together like magic. It is my favourite part of the EP.

This pensive, intimate and forlorn release is elevated by the fact it is all recorded inside the church that inspired it. You can hear the room hiss and it adds character to each song. Moreover, the sentimental space Andy Aquarius gives to his music lets it breathe. That space shows his confidence and commitment to delivering music that conveys a mood or emotion, not a three-minute ditty. You can’t help but sit with the thoughts each song reveals to you and it’s what makes Andy Aquarius’ music special. Each release is slightly different, but ‘Holy Glade’ is the perfect bite-sized introduction to a fantastic artist. Mystical harp-folk at its best.

Recommended track: Holy Glade

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