Album Review: Keep An Open Mind by Saint Low
Released in 1998 under the UK-based label Easy!Tiger, Keep An Open Mind by Saint Low is an understated gem that fuses Indie Rock with tender Balladry. The album doesn’t scream for attention—it whispers, lingers, and then quietly takes hold of your emotions. With Mary Lorson at the helm as vocalist, guitarist, keyboardist, and primary songwriter, this record feels deeply personal yet universally relatable. Produced collaboratively by Lorson herself and bassist Adam Lasus, it carves out a niche where introspection meets melody.
The opening track, “Keep An Open Mind,” sets the tone immediately. It’s hard not to get hooked by its unassuming charm—a blend of jangly guitars, steady drumming courtesy of Marc Mueller, and Lorson’s ethereal voice. What sticks with me about this track isn’t just its catchy chorus but how effortlessly it captures the push-and-pull between vulnerability and resolve. Lyrically, it nudges listeners toward openness, a theme echoed throughout the album. Listening to it feels like hearing advice from someone who’s been through the wringer but still believes in hope. That mix of grit and grace? Super compelling.
Another standout is “Anywhere.” This one hits differently—softer, dreamier, almost like a late-night confession. The instrumentation here leans more into ballad territory, with lush keys and gentle guitar work creating a cocoon of sound. Lorson’s vocals float above it all, fragile yet commanding. There’s something haunting about the way she stretches certain words; you can tell every note carries weight. I remember this track because it feels like a moment frozen in time—those quiet nights when you’re caught between longing and acceptance. Honestly, it’s tracks like these that remind you why music matters.
Production-wise, kudos go to Billy Cote for mixing and Adam Lasus for bringing cohesion to the project. Every instrument has room to breathe, which lets the emotional core of each song shine through. And while some might argue the album lacks polish compared to mainstream releases of the era, that rawness is exactly what makes it memorable. You don’t want perfection here—you want authenticity.
Looking back, Keep An Open Mind exists in a curious space. It’s neither too flashy nor overly experimental, but maybe that’s the point. In a world obsessed with grand gestures, sometimes subtlety speaks louder. As indie rock albums go, this one flew under the radar, but for those willing to listen closely, it offers rewards far greater than chart positions or radio play could ever provide.
Final thought? If you’ve never heard of Saint Low before, don’t sweat it. But do yourself a favor and give this album a spin. Who knows? Maybe it’ll make you keep an open mind about what truly resonates. Or maybe it’ll just leave you humming "Anywhere" on repeat—either way, win-win.
