Naims, the musical project of Alaskan musician Ian Stewart, has a way of making familiar rock sounds feel personal. His music draws on the warmth of classic rock while moving comfortably through different genres and subjects. Expressive vocals, warm guitars, steady bass, and organic drumming give his songs an inviting character. Much of the material is recorded in a living room, and that homespun approach brings a welcome intimacy to the sound. There’s a rawness to the recordings that makes them feel genuine, while the thoughtful arrangements reveal Stewart’s depth as a songwriter.
That balance carries through the 13 tracks on his latest album, “Paces,” an indie-rock record shaped by vintage influences, contemporary sensibilities, and a genuine curiosity about where the music can go.
“All the Little Things” opens the album on a beautifully solemn, nostalgic note. Its country-rock touches lend warmth to the wistful atmosphere, while Stewart’s heartfelt vocal harmonies bring out the longing in the performance. There’s something comforting about the way the instrumentation surrounds his voice, allowing the sadness to come through naturally. It’s a sincere, tender introduction that establishes the album’s reflective mood.
“The Things She Said” begins with softly layered acoustic foundations, gradually filling out with classic pop-rock details. A steady, mid-tempo drumbeat gives the song momentum without disturbing its gentle character. Stewart’s melodic, rhythmic vocals sit comfortably within the rich backing arrangements, which recall the warmth of early 1970s rock. There’s a bittersweet quality to the performance, with a slight melancholy running beneath its brighter melodies. The contrast works beautifully, giving the song an infectious, singable quality that stays with you well after the final notes fade.
“One Leg at a Time” brings a livelier energy. The driving guitar and brisk rhythm give it an immediate dance-floor appeal, and Stewart’s focused vocal delivery keeps pace with the instrumentation. It’s a short, energetic performance with an easy singalong quality and plenty of replay value. Just as the groove settles in, the song reaches an ending that feels almost abrupt. You find yourself wanting another verse or chorus, which makes returning to it all the more tempting.
The title track, “Paces,” brings the album’s nostalgic warmth and hopeful outlook into focus. Stewart combines a retro rock foundation with the polished layering of modern bedroom indie, showing an assured command of the instruments and arrangements. His earnest vocal delivery gives the performance a personal touch, particularly as the song turns toward self-reflection and the gradual process of personal growth.
The chorus captures that sentiment perfectly: “One step at a time, life is putting me through the paces…”
There’s something reassuring about that acknowledgment of life’s challenges and the patience required to move through them. The instrumentation flows naturally around the vocals, creating an atmospheric, immersive listening experience that feels especially relatable. It’s an inspiring centerpiece, and one of the album’s most rewarding moments to revisit.
Overall, “Paces” earns a solid 8. Stewart has put together a warm, engaging record that I would happily recommend to anyone who enjoys nostalgic, contemplative rock music with a personal touch.
Stream it here.
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