Active Child channels the sensitive side of pop music. The project of Pat Grossi, a member of the Philadelphia Boy’s Choir when he was growing up, the music has a certain sense of openness and vulnerability to it. Mercy, Active Child’s sophomore full length, sees the singer removing the layers of reverb from his vocals that characterized his debut. The vocals are as raw and honest as ever, but there is a new, more intimate side to Grossi. His harp and piano playing is joined by Van Rivers’ futuristic production. The songs are mostly love songs, which seem fitting for the vocals and production. It’s heartbreaking and luxurious all at once, sublimely exquisite.

• 180 gram pressing
• music label: Vagrant 2015

reviewed by Le Haim 07/2015