Minneapolis-based folk singer Kristian Melom, working under his Minor Kingdom moniker, recently released his intimate debut record My Back Will Bend. The disc, which blends his whimsical folk tunes with some buzzing soundscapes, is a serene take on the singer/songwriter genre. Melom, who wrote that the LP was “Recorded in many different bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, and basements,” stepped into the live setting for a CD release show last week at the Kitty Cat Klub in Minneapolis. The show, which found the songs stripped to their bare essentials, proved that his music stands up without the sparkle of the studio.

Where the record is buzzing and pretty, the songs were sparse and direct when played live, highlighting his easy going vocals and intricate, melodic guitar playing. Starting solo, Melom was later accompanied by drums and an upright bass for the last portion of the set. His songs, often dark and introspective, created a striking scene that drew listeners in and found the club focusing intently to his songs. The fact that he seemed a mixture of shy, timid and nervous served the songs well and added a level of intrigue to the performance. Like on the record, the highlight for me was the stunning “Choir of the Lilies.” The song features songstress Haley Bonar on My Back Will Bend, but Aby Wolf, who played a set after Minor Kingdom, filled in nicely at the release show. Whether you see his stripped down live show or hear the dense, melodic orchestration on My Back Will Bend, you will find that Melom is a richly talented singer/songwriter who is a welcomed addition to the Minneapolis music scene.

Minor Kingdom feat. Haley Bonar “Choir of the Lilies” (mp3) (mp3 removed by request)

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