A Loaded Deck
Tom McRae is back in town with a brand new album and a brand new record company, and let's hope he gets the support he needs from V2 to open up his music to the public at large. On McRae's last album I complained that his then record company were not backing talent such as Tom's, but were more interested in earning a fast buck from the winner of X Factor who was talentless. I was right and only a few albums shifted, while the winner of X Factor was a one hit wonder and his follow up album sold only 200 copies (didn't realise there were that many stupid people around!)
If you are wondering what sort of music can you expect from Tom McRae, think along the lines of Nick Drake and David Gray, some go as far as suggesting Coldplay - but he is better than them. The soundscapes that McRae writes and produces are rich and warm, at times comforting, while at times haunting.
Tom McRae shows us the depth of his vocal and writing talents with this album, where no one track is a boring repetition of what went before. The lyrics are clear, humorous and honest and at times that really stands out especially with tracks such as 'Keep Your Picture Clear'.
Tha album is easy to listen too and is able to draw you in, and like a fine red wine seems to mature with every listen. There are some upbeat songs on this album which may surprise a few people but they are welcome interludes such as 'Sound Of The City', which is upbeat but not out of place on the album. In fact it wouldn't be out of place on a radio show.
I would go as far as to say 'Lord, How Long?' is Tom McRae's commentary on war and especially those currently being fought by British Forces. This is a soaring song that seems to get under your skin, and you can easily visualise the scenes he describes.
It is great to have Tom McRae back amd I certainly hope that he gets the support his music certainly deserves. This is an album of inspired relaxing melodies that bring to life McRae's current thinking. This is a beautiful album and everyone ought to have a copy, it is so damn relaxing!