[image-4]Published January 31, 2008.
Hayden
In Field & Town
(Hardwood Records)
Whether hes hibernating in a rural or urban setting, Hayden consistently delivers a flawless collection of bedroom-turned-campfire songs. Partially inspired by his geographical surroundings, the reclusive observer views life through the lenses of city dwelling, country living and unrequited love. Opening his seventh album with the self-titled track In Field & Town, its apparent how perfectly this recording could be the soundtrack for a solo road trip. Before youve cleared the city limits, he breaks out The Van Song. A travel song by definition, Hayden synchronizes the
feel-good vibe of the distance to come, feet softly revving on the gas pedal in rhythm. Through the windshield are images of endless stretches of land, while Hayden begins to question his motives and means for this metaphorical road trip with Worthy of Your Esteem.
Further on, truck stops, diners and provincial view- points miles behind, he ponders the Weight of the World with Aussie touring mate Holly Throsby. Once the longing subsides, he brings it back into high gear with Where and When, only to slow things down with the pensive Did I Wake Up Beside You? Part documentation, part confession, it seems Hayden has learned the pleasure isnt in the departure nor the arrival---its in the physical journey itself.
Shannon Webb-Campbell