Words by Brandon Pestano

Skydaddy takes flight with Pilot, the debut EP from English-Lebanese London based artist Rachid Fakhre. Created following a period of self doubt and introspection, Pilot is a delicately crafted five track orchestral alt-folk project knitted together with love and care like a warm homemade jumper by a campfire at night.

Embodying a throwback 60/70’s sound, the EP is a deeply refreshing and satisfying listen charged with a feeling of prospicient longing and the fulfilment of forgotten dreams. You can’t help but imagine yourself walking through a canopy of trees in a London park on a spring morning, or bumping into an old friend in an old antique market. This perhaps is Pilot’s greatest strength, its vivid positivity. Not the kind of fake positivity that forces itself on you, but rather a subtle yet deeply authentic essence of emotional freedom.

The project ebbs and flows masterfully, balancing gentle moments of space with emotional crescendos harmonised by an 8-piece band of drums, piano, cello, flute, guitars and violin. Listen out for a touching harmony with Tyler Clyde of Black Country, New Road on the song “Tear Gas”, a song about an “ill-fated past relationship”. A personal favourite of ours is “Everything’”, a sincerely beautiful, floating, ambient, and gradually evolving composition, described by Fakhre as “mantra-like”. Each song on Pilot is uniquely special with its own specific charm, whilst blending together as a whole effortlessly. This allows the listener to embark on a seamless journey that leaves you wanting more by the end, leading to the only critique of Pilot, which is that if only it could have been longer!

However, we’ll eagerly stay tuned for more and if this lift off is anything to go by, this is due to be a fulfilling flight with serene views and no turbulence. With Skydaddy in the pilot seat, you know you’re in safe hands.

Pilot is due for release on 12″ vinyl via Bathtime Sounds on the 2nd February 2024