Jon Allen's debut album
I was fortunate to review the debut single from South Devon’s most prestigious singer songwriter Jon Allen a while ago, so am more than delighted to listen to the debut album ‘Dead Man’s Suit’.
For much of this release, the tracks retain a mix of folksy, blues-rock with a semi-acoustic balance of gentle and soothing guitar pings with emotional vocals. There is also the odd independent stand-alone differing song. The album opens with the title track, which sets high standards from the start. As this song continues the ingenious Allen talent continues to be explored with the driven melodies. ‘In Your Light’ is glued together by the gentle intertwining of drumming, slow guitar and keys, ‘Sleeping Soul’ has some distant strings present and the concluding tune ‘Friends’ sums up the album with a harmonious depth.
The more vibrant pop rock tunes add some electric riffs such as the bounce of ‘Down By The River’, the inner power which builds its electric melodies on top of the mellow setting form a well rounded tune while the fast paced pounding of keys and guitars knocking out electric riffs create a catchy and powerful chorus for ‘Young Man Blues’. ‘Bad Penny’ creates a little jazzier style in regards to keys while retaining its security with guitars. Its very different to the other tracks and stands out for this reason.
When Allen projects his vocal capability, I think of James Morrison with an edge. ‘Take Me To Heart’ is one of the strongest demonstrations of his vocal talents. His descriptive language and playful lyrics is remarkable and makes tracks easier to understand, gives meaning to a song and supplies some very catchy choruses. ‘Going Home’ is a visual creation with images flooding a listener, giving the track a much more enjoyable understanding.
Jon Allen has a real gift for writing, singing and creating some of the most enjoyable tracks available at the minute. There are big things in store for Allen in the future.