Joe Holtaway bolsters grassroots activism in his stimulating folk album "Warmth of the Ages."

Art has always set precedents for heralding transformation in society— a forthright example being the recent album "Warmth of the Ages" by Joe Holtaway. A firm believer in the concept of grassroots movements, his music addresses a broad spectrum of contemporary topics in a delicate yet thought-provoking nuance.

A compassionate poet at heart, Joe Holtaway's ingenuity is apparent in penning evocative words, which synergize with simplistic yet compelling compositions, turning into something that can be grasped universally. The sole focus of these tracks is to probe into otherwise intricate subjects (like war and inequality), leaving a meaningful impact on listeners long after the last note has been played. There's a grounded sincerity imbued deeply in this album, forsaking any attempts at ambitious instrumentation or overtly metaphorical songwriting. This kind of stripped-back authenticity has attracted thousands in streaming Joe's discography (evident in the earnest success attained by his prior singles and albums), but also earning appreciative words from various outlets (Homestage Folk, BBC6, amongst a growing list). Taking further steps, Joe has also conducted podcasts with guests (each episode stemming from a song included in the album) and live takes, conducted around relevant locations like memorials.

Prefacing the included ten songs is "Oh Friends": devoted to practicing empathy in these fragile times, encouraging peace and togetherness in overcoming barriers. The homespun nature of these arrangements resonates from the choice of light and folksy instruments (extending well beyond this opener), subtly put together in an unobtrusive yet complementary manner. An anti-war ode, "Listen To Women" gives a voice to the countless innocents (children and their mothers), often abandoned in the brutality of senseless wars waged by men ("Listen to women to children to trees... those so long muted, should not have to scream"). 

Revolving around the tragic incident of the 2017 fire in Grenfell Tower of London, "Grenfell" targets widespread ignorance borne out of social disparity. As if to dispense solace subsequently, "Body" (with Monica Max West) feels much like a warm embrace on a sunny day, emanating love and kindness. During "This Skin," the vocalist laments the miserable consequences of racial inequality, acknowledging the superiority granted to a certain few on a flawed, superficial basis ("This skin scared of edges//born into power and privileges"). 

Perhaps the most stirring rendition occurs towards the end in "Delius Rakauskas"— it's a heartfelt commemoration to his late friend, who succumbed to homelessness. Scarcely any melody or cadence plays here apart from swelling strings, the eulogy retelling an eventful yet grim life story. The glaring faults of the Vagrancy Act and wealth inequality are highlighted, as the singer promises that Delius and those affected unjustifiably won't be forgotten.

Listen to "Warmth of the Ages" on Spotify, and follow Joe Holtaway on his site and Instagram.