Battles against alcoholism are never easy so Martin Harley’s newfound sobriety is a just cause for celebration in his first solo album in five years. The title track and Lemonade both songs relate this topic. Hold the champagne on ice!
Harley was born in the UK but sounds so convincingly American it’s a surprise to learn that this album was recorded at Airtight Studios in Manchester. It is crisply produced by Nigel Stonier.
On The Best Is Yet To Come the singer pledges to stay optimistic and curious about the world while Chop Your Own Wood is all about not dwelling on past mistakes and taking responsibility for your own actions.
Stranger In My Home explores how isolating fame can be. Shotgun and a Shovel is an upbeat country tune built around the arresting line “She’s as subtle as a shotgun and shovel” and features Chris Hillman on pedal steel guitar.
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Harley aims to write personal songs with a universal appeal . The number 48 refers to his age and the record ends with Kite , a lullaby for his daughter.
Despite the seriousness of some of the messages, there’s a warm, laid-back feel to this record which is rooted in the blues but dedicated to silver linings.
Martin Harley’s website
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