With an upbringing surrounded by 70s classic rock and prog, it’s not altogether surprising that Steve Ravensfield’s influences include Led Zep, Pink Floyd, Bob Dylan, David Bowie, Frank Zappa, Joe Bonamassa, Eric Clapton, Jetho Tull, King Crimson, and Norah Jones. Wait, Norah Jones? Yep, apparently so.
‘Broken Diamonds’ is… well, what is it? It’s a solid album. It’s got some decent songs. It also has some weaker ones, and begins to taper off into slightly forgettable territory around the midway mark. It does sound about maybe 20 to 25 years out of step. Does that make it ‘classic’ in today’s currency?
‘Wishing Well’ is hewn from a country rock mould, Ravensfield’s Chris Rea-esque growl countered by some over the top female backing vocals. Over the course of the album’s nine tracks, he demonstrates a penchant – and a knack for – the epic build, songs which begin as hushed, acoustic-based mediations and end up as surging emotional bursts.
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His worldweary lyrics demonstrate a certain poeticism, and a sophistication which advances beyond endless rhyming couplets, making for a set of songs that are very much a thinking person’s record – and no doubt a record for grouchy dads.
Steve Ravensfield Onine
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